SLSA Annual Report 2025

2024/25

ANNUAL REPORT

“The lifesavers’ lifesaver, who had such a great understanding of people and the movement – from the beach to the board room.”

John, ‘JB’ Baker AM ESM - President of Surf Life Saving Australia, patrolling member of Brighton Surf Life Saving Club, volunteer crew member of the South Australian Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service, a teammate, a friend, a family man, and an extraordinary leader whose passion and commitment to saving lives and making Surf Life Saving a place where everyone belongs, left an indelible mark on all who knew and worked with him.

The Surf Life Saving community is in mourning following the sudden passing of Surf Life Saving Australia President John Baker AM ESM on 8 August 2025.

JB was the seventh President of SLSA, serving in the role since 2021 after spending nine years on the national board as President of Surf Life Saving South Australia.

His legacy includes over 40 years as an active patrolling member of his beloved Brighton Surf Life Saving Club, and he was a long-serving volunteer crew member of the South Australian Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

JB’s passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to Surf Life Saving and its community has left a lasting imprint. His incredible legacy will live on for generations to come.

“Today is terrible for our Surf Life Saving community, losing one of our most dedicated volunteers and leaders. JB’s passion for Surf Life Saving was felt at all levels of our organisation. Beyond the accolades and awards, John was a beloved member of our Surf Life Saving community and will be missed.”

Adam Weir, CEO, SLSA

“JB’s State and National accolades are numerous and well documented, but for us at Brighton, it is the man who had a little bit of mischief, a warm smile, and an ear for anyone who wanted his time who will be remembered. We are all richer for having spent time with JB, and we will continue to honour him by sharing stories and talking of a man who will have a lasting impact on not only our club, but the entire surf lifesaving community. Vale John Baker AM ESM.” Brighton SLSC

“This is such a loss for our movement – of a leader, and of a friend. JB was incredibly dedicated to Surf Life Saving. It’s hard to believe that we won’t be hearing his voice over the radio as he’s patrolling in the chopper, or be able to laugh at his jokes – usually at his own expense. Our condolences go out to Jo and his family and friends, as well as Brighton SLSC – we will join you in keeping JB’s memory and legacy alive.”

Sarah Cutbush, SLSSA President and National Director

ABOUT JOHN BAKER AM ESM

• First joined Surf Life Saving in 1977.

• Active member & Life Member of Brighton Surf Life Saving Club.

• Joined the South Australian Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service in 1994 and is one of the longest serving crew members in Australia.

• Served on Surf Life Saving South Australia Board for 15 years, including serving as President.

• Served on Surf Life Saving Australia Board for 14 years, including 5 years as President.

• In 2017 awarded Emergency Services Medal (ESM) for distinguished service by a member of an Australian emergency service.

• In 2018 awarded International Lifesaving Citation of Merit for distinguished service.

• In 2021 he was inducted into SLSSA Hall of Fame.

• In 2021 he was awarded SLSA Life Membership.

• In 2024 was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM).

• In 2024 he was elected as the ILS Vice President, Asia Pacific President and ILS Board Member.

SECTION 06 - GOVERNANCE & OVERSIGHT

SECTION 10 - SURF LIFE SAVING ENTITIES

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Surf Life Saving Australia acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of all the lands and waters on which we surf, swim, work and live. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past and present, and acknowledge their enduring connection to the coastlines, oceans, and waterways across this nation. We are committed to learning from the knowledge and traditions of Australia’s First Peoples, who have safeguarded these shores and seas for thousands of years. In the spirit of reconciliation, we honour the stories, traditions, and living cultures of First Nations peoples and pledge to work together for a safer, more inclusive beach environment for all.

SECTION 01 INTRODUCTION

PRESIDENT AND CEO REPORT

For over a century, the ‘red & yellow’ has been an iconic symbol of safety, vigilance and in many cases bravery on beaches all over Australia. Our members are the heartbeat of our organisation, and this year marked an incredible milestone in our history, as we surpassed 200,000 members across 316 affiliated Surf Life Saving Clubs. This reflects the enduring strength of our movement and the immense footprint Surf Life Saving has across our nation, and it is one we are immensely proud of.

Reputation and brand health are key indicators of a vibrant and sustainable movement, and this year we were proudly named Australia’s second most trusted charity by RepTrak, achieving our highest-ever reputation score of 94.2. This outstanding result stems from the contribution our members make in communities across the country, patrolling, training, teaching, and prioritising the safety of others. The impact of our volunteers was profound in 2024/25, with our nation’s beaches busier than ever. More than 1.469 million patrol hours were carried out over the past year, a true testament to our

volunteers’ commitment and selfless dedication to the Surf Life Saving movement. During the past year, 8,027 rescues, more than 2.1 million preventative actions, and 65,942 first aid treatments were performed by Surf Life Saving, with a value of over $9 billion to the community.

Their service extended beyond the beach during natural disasters, including flooding in Queensland and NSW and Tropical Cyclone Alfred. During these states of emergency, the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopters, along with volunteers from across Australia and the Surf Life Saving Australia Flood and Swift Water Rescue Centre of Excellence (Tasmania) stood tall, supporting emergency services and providing essential aid to communities in desperate need. We thank them for their service and selfless dedication to helping others in times of crisis.

Central to our impact is the vital role of research. The National Drowning Report 2025 , produced with Royal Life Saving Australia, highlighted a concerning 27% increase in drowning deaths nationally, with almost half occurring in coastal waters.

John Baker AM ESM, SLSA President

Our National Coastal Safety Report continued to provide coastal safety insights needed to reduce fatalities.

Innovation remained central to operations, with projects such as the new Incident Management System, updated IRB and RWC specifications, and a redesign of patrol uniforms. Through the Lifesaving Innovation Day, which was held during the year, we continued to look for the next new piece of rescue technology that will help save lives. Our Beach Drowning Blackspot and Beach Safety Equipment Fund programs continued to support high-risk areas and provide clubs with essential lifesaving gear. We were also proud to celebrate 50 years of the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service (Southern), which completed 455 critical missions in 2024/25. We extend our deepest thanks to Westpac, the NSW Government, and the community whose support remains indispensable.

Inclusion and reconciliation advanced through the establishment of our inaugural Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group and the launch of our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Framework. This framework, supported by a new advisory group, is driving 88 identified action items to make our movement more welcoming. SLSA also maintained Gold Status in the Pride in Sport Index, while our ongoing partnership with Lifesavers with Pride and the return of Adaptive Events at the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships (Aussies) reflected our commitment to providing meaningful opportunities for all. It was another outstanding year in surf sport. The Aussies returned to the Gold Coast, attracting an incredible 7,500 competitors from 210 clubs, the iconic Shaw and Partners Coolangatta Gold celebrated its 40th year, and the Australian Life Saving Team enjoyed success at the 2024 World Lifesaving Championships claiming the title in both Open and Youth divisions. The Iron Series also entered a new era with Shaw and Partners as naming rights partner and an exciting elimination format.

Collaboration and shared learning were fostered through our national leadership programs, as emerging leaders from across Australia and New Zealand united for our annual National Leadership College and Leaders’ Masterclass. The Women’s Mentoring Program advanced female leadership, with over 200 participants to date. Key initiatives also included a comprehensive review of the Age Manager course to better engage and support junior members.

Awareness and engagement grew through strong communications and campaigns. The national Stop Look Stay Alive water safety campaign, co-funded by States and Governments, launched with ambassador Angus Sampson. Central to this was the Beach Passport, an accessible online water safety course designed to reach those at unpatrolled beaches and create a pathway into surf lifesaving.

The 2024/25 financial year marked a historic milestone for SLSA fundraising and philanthropy, with over $9.8 million distributed to State entities and the Northern Territory, a remarkable $3.8 million increase from the previous year, representing our largest distribution since the national fundraising arm’s inception.

The Grant Seeking Unit secured a record $14.1 million for SLS entities nationally, an incredible 68% increase from last year, through 692 successful grants. Of these funds, $8.65 million supported critical infrastructure upgrades, ensuring clubs meet growing demand and accessibility standards, while $3.8 million funded frontline lifesaving equipment and programs.

Strong governance and integrity continued to underpin our operations, with SLSA again ranked among the highest Tier 1 sports under the Australian Sports Commission’s Governance Standards. We also maintained close partnerships with all levels of government, securing essential funding and bipartisan support. We thank the Australian Government, the Prime Minister, and the Minister for Sport for their ongoing

Adam Weir, SLSA CEO

investment through the Water and Snow Safety Program, as well as the Australian Sports Commission for increased participation funding. We also extend our thanks to our cochairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Surf Life Saving, the Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP and the Hon. Angie Bell MP; and to the NSW Government for its continued partnership, including support of the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopters and water safety campaign amplification.

SLSA aims to form and maintain partnerships that echo our own values and vision for the future, and we would also like to extend our thanks to our long-term major national partners including Ampol, DHL, Isuzu UTE Australia, and Westpac, alongside new major national partner, Qantas, and our sponsors, BRP, Dulux, FINZ and Kellogg’s, who are deeply committed to our movement.

We also celebrated the achievements of our members, recognised through national honours, medals, and our own Awards of Excellence. Their courage, dedication, and excellence in sport and service showcase the diversity and strength of Surf Life Saving.

This year marked the conclusion of significant tenures, including Chris Jacobson as Chair of Lifesaving and Andrew Buhk as Chair of Sport. We thank them for their exceptional service and leadership, and welcome new Chairs Glen Gallagher and Rachael Rylance. We also acknowledge outgoing LSV President Paul James and warmly welcome Susan Wolff to the Board.

In November 2024, following extensive consultation with over 115 stakeholders, the SLSA Board formally adopted our 2030 Strategic Plan. This plan captures the insights and aspirations of our members and focuses on four priorities: making it easier to be a lifesaver, ensuring inclusivity, achieving sustainability, and strengthening our brand. The launch of this plan in July 2025 marks the start of a new chapter for Surf Life Saving, as we continue to evolve, meet emerging challenges, and strive towards our vision of zero preventable deaths in Australian waters.

Above all, none of this would be possible without our volunteers, staff, and supporters. Whether on the beach, behind the scenes, or cheering from afar, you are part of a movement that saves lives every day. You deserve to call yourself a lifesaver.

Yours in lifesaving,

John Baker AM ESM* President

Surf Life Saving Australia

Adam Weir Chief Executive Officer

Surf Life Saving Australia

* As this report goes to print, our organisation is mourning the loss of John Baker AM ESM, who served as President of Surf Life Saving Australia since 2021. His leadership and unwavering dedication to Surf Life Saving at a club, state, and national level, has left an indelible mark on our community.

WHO WE ARE

Surf Life Saving Australia Limited (SLSA) is Australia’s peak coastal water safety, drowning prevention and rescue authority. Since its founding in 1907, Surf Life Saving has performed nearly 750,000 rescues, protecting lives and safeguarding communities across Australia.

Today, SLSA represents the largest volunteer movement of its kind in Australia, with 207,962 members representing all age groups and demographics across 316 affiliated Surf Life Saving Clubs (SLSCs).

In 2024/25 Surf Life Saving was involved in 8,027 rescues, 65,942 first aid treatments, and 2,194,704 preventative actions. Surf Life Saving volunteers carried out more than 1.469 million patrol hours, demonstrating their commitment to keeping our beaches safe.

Surf Life Saving is a unique charitable community cause that exists through community donations, fundraising, corporate sponsorship, and government grants.

OUR MISSION

Surf Life Saving exists to save lives, create great Australians, and build better communities.

Australian beaches have long occupied

a special place in Australian culture. With 87% of the population living within 50km of the coast and more than 630 million visitations annually, the beach is a place where people of all backgrounds can come together to enjoy our vast coastline.

The vision of Surf Life Saving is zero preventable deaths in Australian waters. We are committed to educating and protecting all people to further reduce the number of coastal drowning fatalities. Despite significant advancements in technology, techniques and knowledge, many people still lack a basic level of awareness when it comes to water safety. Because of this, coastal drowning still occurs in unacceptable numbers.

WHAT WE DO

Creating safe environments on and off the beach is an integral part of the Surf Life Saving movement with a range of support operations utilised around Australia.

These operations include: 24/7 emergency response groups, Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter services, jet rescue boats, offshore rescue boats, rescue watercraft, surveillance systems, radio control and coordination centres, and volunteer lifesaving services.

Through the State and Territory Centres, Surf Life Saving operates the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS), the country’s largest lifeguard service. This essential service is provided to local government and other coastal land managers.

OUR STRATEGIES

SLSA is currently in the final year of its 2025 Strategic Plan, which has provided a strong foundation to guide the Surf Life Saving movement over recent years. This plan has focused on enhancing the capacity and capability of our movement to save lives, create great Australians, and build better communities. The four key pillars that have shaped our direction and supported the achievement of our mission are:

1. Save lives

2. Develop and support our people

3. Grow and sustain our movement

4. Engage the community

As we look ahead to our 2030 Strategic Plan, these pillars will continue to inform and inspire our work.

ABOUT THIS REPORT

This is the Annual Report of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited ABN 67 449 738 159/ACN 003 147 180, covering the period of 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025. The Surf Life Saving movement is made up of 500 separate legal entities, including State and Territory Centres, Surf Life Saving Clubs, Branches (in Queensland and New South Wales) and support operations. The financial accounts of these entities, whose relationship with SLSA is further described in section seven, are not consolidated here. The activities and achievements of all surf lifesavers however are consolidated and reported.

SURF LIFE SAVING STRATEGIC PLAN 2025

VISION

Zero preventable deaths in Australian waters.

SURF LIFE SAVING STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS

1 SAVE LIVES

STRATEGIES

1.1: Always being rescue ready

1.2: Maximising safety between the flags

1.3: Working to reduce drowning and injury rates

1.4: Leading evidenced based research and innovation

1.5: Having industry best practice risk management systems

1.6: By leading and delivering as the peak coastal safety body

1.7 Supporting drowning prevention internationally, particularly in the Asia Pacific region

SUCCESS FACTORS

There have been no drowning deaths between the flags.

The per capita drowning and injury rates are below the 5-year rolling average.

As the peak coastal water safety body, we have leading representation on international and national water safety / drowning prevention bodies.

• We provide opportunities for our people to participate in activities internationally and within the Asia-Pacific and can report and promote these efforts.

State / Territory entities are included in Emergency Management Arrangements.

Patrolling membership increases year on year.

Lifesaving programs and initiatives increase reach into communities year on year.

An increasing proportion of patrolling members are participating in surf sports and / or modified sports activities.

MISSION We save lives, create great Australians, and build better communities.

2.1: Providing and promoting engaging leadership and learning opportunities

2.2: Recognising and rewarding achievement and success

2.3: Developing and promoting great events

2.4: Growing a safety culture

2.5: Promoting the positive contribution of SLS volunteers

2.6: Provide accessible and diverse pathways for members within SLS

3.1: Protecting and enhancing the brand to drive internal and external support

3.2: Developing effective strategic and operational alignment across all levels of the organisation

3.3: Making it easier for volunteers, staff, and the community to contribute to the movement

3.4: Ensuring, maintaining, and promoting sound financial and governance practices

We will be using best practice technologies to enhance the learning experience for our people and the community.

Education is meeting the needs of our people, the community and key stakeholders.

• We have clearly aligned leadership pathways throughout the movement.

• We are identifying potential leaders early, providing opportunities for development and mentoring.

We are recognising and celebrating the diverse achievements of our people.

We are reporting decreasing injury and accident rates involving our people.

Safety of our people remains first and foremost, with Lost Time Injury (LTI) rates reducing year on year.

Our events are recording growth in participant and partner support.

• SLS pathways generate an uplift in membership and participation in SLS.

Our brand is protected, valued and recognised.

Our brand is in the top 5 most trusted brands for the NFP sector. Strategic financial results are defined and met.

• SLS Strategic Plans are aligned at national, state and club level.

• National and State risk and compliance registers are current, shared and reported.

• We are leveraging technology to enable our people, community and partners to easily contribute to SLS. Fundraising activities (donor and lottery) are growing revenue annually and growing the return to the movement. We are increasing non-government revenue by a minimum 2%.

4.1: Increasing awareness of SLS’s positive contribution to the community

4.2: Encouraging and providing opportunities for the community to engage with SLS

4.3: Being an inclusive organisation that promotes accessibility and diversity

4.4: Being actively engaged in reflecting community expectations particularly in the areas of environmental and sustainability issues

Our membership is growing and retention rates increasing. We can measure an increasing level of engagement of a diverse range of communities.

• Our Champions and Guardians supporters are increasing by 3% annually.

• SLSA reports on distribution of funds transparently across the movement annually.

• We can update the organisation’s economic impact annually. Proactive initiatives and policy are developed to support community expectations and trends.

2024/25 SCORECARD

2020 STRATEGIC INTENT

1. SAVE LIVES

1.1: Always being rescue ready

WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024/25

• Extensive development and review of key gear and equipment specifications such as the rescue board, rescue watercraft and inflatable rescue boat were undertaken to ensure our gear and equipment standards continually improve.

• Further reviewed public rescue equipment and AI cameras on beaches.

Delivered an Innovation Day targeted at new innovative pieces of equipment in medical, rescue, and technology. Continued support for club frontline operations through delivery of the Beach Safety Equipment Fund.

Continued support for club frontline operations through delivery of the BRP Equipment Grant.

1.2: Maximising safety between the flags

• Renewed Blackspot Reduction Drowning Prevention funding for another 2 years.

• Nationally supported a review of Beach Safety Equipment Funding Process to reduce administration.

• Continued to work with the various Lifesaving Committees and working groups to ensure the wider lifesaving community is consulted and that SLSA supports frontline operations as much as possible through policy review, uniform improvements and technological improvements.

• Delivered Lifesaving CPR pilot and published research paper revealing to potential for program to deliver significant improvements of patient outcomes.

1.3: Working to reduce drowning and injury rates  Designed and implemented a new Water Safety Policy and Procedure. Launched an above the line national water safety campaign with revised messaging to better incorporate unpatrolled locations. Campaign reach: 10 million people 18+ nationally.

• Developed a new water safety training platform, Beach Passport, delivering mobile friendly safety content to over 37,000 participants across the season.

• Developed further updates to broader education and policies which will affect the operations of lifesavers on beaches.

• Supported States to improve Rescue Services operations to reduce drowning and injury rates outside the red and yellow flags.

• Worked alongside other agencies and stakeholders to prevent drowning incidence as much as possible.

1.4: Leading evidenced based research and innovation

Delivered a joint launch of the National Drowning Report 2024 with Royal Life Saving Australia at Parliament House in Canberra. The National Coastal Safety Report 2024 was launched in September 2024 and identified longitudinal trends as well as high-risk cohorts for coastal drowning.

Developed and promoted the Unpatrolled Beaches Coastal Safety Brief 2025.

• Summer coastal drowning dashboard and associated PowerBI database was developed to visualise key statistics for internal and external stakeholders over summer.

• NCIS and JHREC agreements, relationships, and approvals maintained.

• Established a national SLS research working group with representatives from all States and New Zealand.

• 2024 Lifesaving Innovation Day delivered.

• Strong, ongoing research relationships were initiated and maintained with 20+ academic and industry multidisciplinary partnerships around the country and abroad.

20+ collaborative abstracts were prepared and submitted to the WCDP2025 with 13+ accepted as oral presentations.

Delivered national acquisition of people movement data along the Australian coastline to use as a measure of coastal visitation at unpatrolled locations.

National Public Rescue Equipment project was initiated with internal stakeholder engagement complete and external stakeholder engagement commenced.

Bluebottle prediction analyses conducted with a preliminary predictive model developed and prepared for implementation testing within SLSA Beachsafe ITC infrastructure.

PPE and first aid treatment pilot experiments for tropical marine stings conducted in Darwin with an international team of experts and multiple SLS state organisations.

1.5: Having industry best practice risk management systems

1.6: By leading and delivering as the peak coastal safety body

1.7 Supporting drowning prevention internationally, particularly in the Asia Pacific region

2. DEVELOP AND SUPPORT OUR PEOPLE

2.1: Providing and promoting engaging leadership and learning opportunities

Rip Eye project made significant progress, successfully creating an annotated rip current image and video database of collated rip currents from different viewpoints, which has been used to develop a rip current identification algorithm to support the tool development. Social science aspect of the project well underway to understand the best way to educate beachgoers how to identify a rip current.

Recent rip current research revealed that male rip-related drowning has decreased significantly since 2004.

Novel data matching research was conducted using NSW ambulance and SLS rescue data to explore novel approaches for nonfatal drowning data.

• SLSA research led and co-authored 11 published academic journal articles and presented at multiple conferences, community and industry workshops, and academic think tanks on various topics ranging from marine stinger treatment practices, coastal drowning epidemiology, unpatrolled beaches and beachgoer behaviour, high performance CPR, mental health and high-risk drowning cohorts.

Led collaborative NSW water safety campaign alongside the NSW Premiers Dept, SLSNSW, RLSSA NSW, AUSTSWIM, and NSW Parks & Wildlife.

Reviewed and updated SLSA specifications as per schedule to ensure standards are up to date and current.

Maintained SLSA Registered Gear & Equipment Manufactures, ensuring Gear and Equipment are at the highest standard. Engaged with internal working groups and external consultants to align specifications and processes risk management principles and operational feedback from the field.

• Improved online systems for Lifesaving Equipment.

Promoted and developed content for National Drowning Report and key Coastal Safety activities including the National Coastal Safety Report, Summer Coastal Drowning Report, Unpatrolled Beaches Coastal Safety Brief and key awareness days such as National Water Safety Day, World Drowning Prevention Day as well as other public relation opportunities.

Delivered the 2025 Lifeguard Magazine.

• Delivered the Japan Exchange Program.

• Continued to develop relationships within the Asia Pacific area in partnership with ILS.

• Continued to facilitate and provide leadership for international exchanges and developments.

• Supported Asia / Pacific partners through sharing of resources.

2.2: Recognising and rewarding achievement and success

2.3: Developing and promoting great events

Delivered Masterclass 2024 with 28 participants, and National Leadership College 2025 with 24 participants for eligible members who represented the membership in gender and across states/territory. There were also representatives from SLSNZ at both programs.

Continued with Women’s Mentoring Program Cohort 5 (graduated Oct 2024) and launched Cohort 6 in Aug 2024. Renewed VET funding and provided reports on our education and training activities to the Government as required. Resource development completed as per the agreement with relevant stakeholders on time and to budget.

Extended contract with LMS provider until June 2026.

Supported all IT L&D applications with an ongoing view to minimise paperwork. Represented SLSA in line with organisational values at relevant national L&D and industry relevant conferences.

• Represented SLS interests and provided updates on VET matters which affected the SLSA RTO & wider membership to ensure ongoing compliance.

• Continued to work with the various L&D Committees and working groups to ensure the wider membership were consulted.

• Achieved re-registration of the SLSA Registered Training Organisation for a further seven years.

• Completed ongoing consultation on necessary compliance and enhancement items in Surfguard.

• Promoted, processed and coordinated the articulated credit model in conjunction with participating states and territories.

Administered a streamlined National Medal and Patrol Service awards program.

Recognised outstanding rescues through our Meritorious awards program.

• Delivered a successful suite of National Events including IRB Championships, Pool Rescue Championships, and Interstate Championships.

Delivered a successful Australian Youth, Masters, and Open Championships

Delivered a successful elite suit of events including an Ironman and Ironwoman Series, Coolangatta Gold.

Partnered with the ASRL to deliver the Australian Team Selection Trial, National Short Course Surf Boat Championships, and Surf Boat Interstate Championships.

Further developed and delivered Athletes, Officials, and Coaches aids through Sports Hub.

Continued to develop digital technology assets in surf sports to drive efficiencies and improve the user experience.

Continued to review models and processes for the Australian Championships.

Developed enhanced communications plans including marketing, media, digital, and content to promote SLSA sporting events. Further development and implementation of a tiered training program to enhance the role of the SEMC.

• Continued to explore and develop further avenues for the introduction of All Abilities/Adaptive events in national sport events.

• Developed and explored avenues to drive efficiencies in national sporting events and to improve the stakeholder experience.

2.4: Growing a safety culture

SLSA has continued to have a strong presence in the Integrity Space this past year attending SIA NIM Forum’s and ASC Courses. Policies underwent the annual review and were uploaded into the Members Hub. All Elite athletes completed their required anti-doping education requirements to be eligible to complete in the Iron Series and Australian Lifesaving Team World Championships.

2.5: Promoting the positive contribution of SLS volunteers

2.6: Provide accessible and diverse pathways for members within SLS

3. GROW AND SUSTAIN OUR MOVEMENT

3.1: Protecting and enhancing the brand to drive internal and external support

Published a revised Recognition and Achievement Framework in Manula to provide clarification for states and territories.

Delivered a successful Awards of Excellence.

SLS Innovation Fund Committee progressed existing projects as funds became available.

Innovation Fund – continued to engage existing and attracted new supporters/donors.

• Continued to support the Youth Working Group nationally.

• Maintained the Junior Development Resources and commenced a review on the Age Manager resources to support their delivery.

Delivered a major above the line campaign, featuring an internationally recognised actor and reaching over 10 million adults.

Delivered a Digital Asset Management tool to manage and distribute visual assets internally and externally.

Provided free water safety education to over 37,000 people via Beach Passport.

Provided corporate partnership support to all national member events, programs, and initiatives. Explore opportunities to secure new corporate partners for key flagship member events, programs, and initiatives.

Identified new corporate partner pipeline for member events, programs and initiatives.

3.2: Developing effective strategic and operational alignment across all levels of the organisation

3.3: Making it easier for volunteers, staff, and the community to contribute to the movement

• States delivered the current national corporate partner contractual obligations (activations and branding) with quarterly reporting.

• Worked towards national corporate partners benefits for new partners to be provided to the states within 4 weeks of signing a new partner.

Developed SLSA’s 2030 Strategic Plan through a collaborative process engaging Board members, Executive Management Group, grassroots volunteers, and national and state/territory leaders.

• GSU reporting system framework delivered –additional work required in 2025/26.

• Maintained a suite of regularly produced standard performance reports accessible for internal purposes.

• The Lottery and Donations System (LADS) was seamlessly implemented in October. A second phase with further enhancements is currently in progress.

• Post the second phase LADS implementations, relevant further opportunities/channels where donations can be requested as part of a lottery sale will be rolled out.

• Reviewed fundraising requirements and resources following implementation of LADS and submitted a proposal with recommended role changes to support market opportunities and implement more cost-effective lottery sales strategies.

3.4: Ensuring, maintaining, and promoting sound financial and governance practices

The management accounting suite of reports have been updated and will be in place for the new financial year.

Selected and designed lottery prize home properties to align with supporter expectations and uphold the standards of an aspirational prize home experience.

• Ensured lottery prize homes were selected, acquired, renovated, and maintained as per required timeframes to effectively meet draw timelines.

• Maintained funding with Tourism and Events QLD around The Aussies and Coolangatta Gold.

• Maintained funding with TWA around The Aussies for the off years of Aussies in QLD.

• Secured additional funding for the Shaw and Partners Iron Series in Newcastle Council. Engaged with corporate partners to ensure relevant funding is maintained nationally.

4. ENGAGE THE COMMUNITY

4.1: Increasing awareness of SLS’s positive contribution to the community

4.2: Encouraging and providing opportunities for the community to engage with SLS

Renewed partnership with national partner Ampol.

Extended SLSA sport partnerships with Shaw and Partners Financial Services and Race One Surf Craft.

Through our PFSLS we continued to build relationships with all sides of government to promote Surf Life Saving’s positive contribution to the community.

Weekly stories shared on social and digital channels highlighting things such as rescue stories, awards, academies, educational opportunities, scholarships, and other community events.

• Maintained clear and purposeful reporting to help inform GSU strategy and develop future growth. Management reporting system on track to be finalised 2025/26.

Maintained flexibility in GSU to create capacity to scale up through upskilling new Grant Writers.

Achieved GSU grant revenue target (record year of $14.1 million), maintained existing client base and number of SLS clubs engaged with the GSU.

Continued to assist the states to operate the Silver Salties program with 62 clubs running the program.

Continued working with existing national partners to identify and collaborate on fundraising opportunities and implemented fundraising initiatives with Isuzu UTE Australia and Ampol.

Designed new lottery subscriber retention strategies, including targeted and personalised communications, which will be implemented post system phase 2 enhancements when the integrated marketing platform comes online.

Continued to progress the online supporter dashboard, which once implemented will enhance and improve the supporter user experience (UX).

• Continued to acquire new lottery customers and new donors cost effectively online to build the database to increase direct marketing opportunities for champions and RG conversion and/or upsell and cross-sell opportunities.

• Maintained strong relationships with third-party fundraising partners to grow commercially.

• Actively invested in new areas to sustain philanthropic income and progressed the bequest strategy.

• SLSWA was successfully integrated back into national fundraising and the entity is now actively accessing GSU opportunities.

4.3: Being an inclusive organisation that promotes accessibility and diversity

Demonstrated our ongoing commitment to DEI through the release of the SLSA DEI Framework, and the development and implementation of an Action Plan across all levels of SLS.

Continued to support club disability inclusion programs through the Inclusive Beaches Equipment Grant.

• Continued membership with Pride in Sport and improved our Index rating. Maintained Gold Tier Status.

• Continued our relationship with Lifesavers with Pride, ASAPD and ASPECT.

• New membership with Diversity Australia.

• Formed Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Group to embark on the development of a Reflect RAP as a meaningful step towards reconciliation.

• Regional television advertising for 2025 Aussies Adaptive Events, exposing new audiences to SLSA’s diverse and accessible sports.

4.4: Being actively engaged in reflecting community expectations particularly in the areas of environmental and sustainability issues

Disaster preparedness along Australia’s coastline due to climate change project finalised delivering and national report with state and national-level recommendations, 50 site-specific assessment reports, an interactive pdf tool that all clubs can use to understand their exposure and to identify recommendations to mitigate potential risks that could be considered.

• Identified opportunities to enhance sustainability practices across SLSA i.e. recycling of patrol uniforms, microplastics, and use of electric motors on IRBs.

COASTAL SAFETY

SLSA’s Coastal Safety team continues to play a vital role in protecting lives and improving safety outcomes across our expansive coastline. With almost 12,000 beaches and 32,000 kilometres of coastline, our work spans critical operations support, equipment development, innovation, frontline safety standards, and major strategic projects.

This year, collaboration across national and State-based partners has continued to evolve, with focused efforts in surf lifesaving capability development, operational planning, and national safety campaigns. Our commitment to evidencebased safety strategies, coordinated patrol systems, and future-ready rescue technologies remains central to everything we do.

This season saw the conclusion of Chris Jacobson’s term as Chair of Lifesaving. Chris spent 13 years on the Lifesaving Advisory Committee including nine years as Chair of Lifesaving. His devotion and unwavering commitment to Surf Life Saving and our vision of zero preventable deaths in Australian waters, saw him contribute to many new initiatives including National Innovation Day, the Surf Risk Rating (integrated across sport, water safety, and patrols), expansion of lifesaving services beyond the flags, and the introduction of UAVs (drones).

During his tenure, Chris played an integral role in progressing research to support evidence-based coastal safety, including NCSR and rip safety programs. He also

contributed to Beach Drowning Blackspot Reduction Program initiatives such as emergency response beacons and surveillance cameras, the development of flood rescue capability, and the introduction of Lifesaving CPR.

We thank Chris for his extensive contribution and welcome Glen Gallagher as the incoming Chair of Lifesaving.

INNOVATION

Innovation has been a cornerstone of our program delivery in 2024/25. Major advances included:

• The delivery of an Innovation Day in Sydney, trialling and testing new and innovative lifesaving equipment with our key stakeholders.

• The progression of the Incident Management System (IMS) project, with vendor assessments now under review by the Lifesaving Systems Advisory Group.

• Development and refinement of the Patrol Uniform Survey, which gathered nationwide feedback to guide the future design and distribution of standardised patrol attire.

• Ongoing review and enhancement of IRB specifications, including direct consultation with manufacturers and external design experts.

• Formation of the RWC Specification Working Group, with successful implementation of actions from its inaugural meeting to further support rescue watercraft operations nationally.

• Collaborative planning with our key partners such as BRP on process improvements for national asset management and grant coordination, laying groundwork for improvements to equipment logistics and procurement.

• Our support for digital platforms also continues, with work underway through a dedicated Product Manager to help drive and coordinate the needs of lifesaving from a technological perspective.

COLLABORATION

Coastal Safety has worked closely with State centres and stakeholders to deliver national consistency while supporting local needs.

• Successful delivery of the Lifesaving Management Committee (LMC) and Lifesaving Advisory Committee (LAC) meetings in Melbourne helped to advance national discussions on patrol operations, equipment, training pathways, and the 2030 Strategic Plan.

• Face-to-face engagement with BRP, direct involvement in Lifesaving CPR workshops, and national coordination of 13SURF vendor evaluations reflected our commitment to practical, interoperable solutions for club and frontline delivery.

• The Japanese Lifesaving Exchange Program was relaunched during the season with six representatives across the country selected to attend and represent SLSA. This program supports international development.

• Coordinated the disbursement of thousands of unused patrol uniforms to the Philippines as part of supporting our AsiaPacific partners.

FRONTLINE EQUIPMENT

A key focus this year has been enhancing Gear and Equipment compliance, safety, availability, and standardisation of frontline rescue equipment.

• Early assessment and supplier scoping for lifejackets was initiated to explore product improvements and new options to ensure safety and functionality as part of representation on the Australian Standards Working Group.

• Work continued in reviewing First Aid bag configurations to align with latest treatment protocols and patrol needs across the country.

• Released an updated rescue board specification.

• Reviewed and released an updated National Lifesaving Equipment and Uniform Brand Guidelines to support a consistent and unified brand identity across all communications and services.

• Ongoing management and review of IRB and RWC specifications, including updates, member consultation, and collaboration with external SLS approved providers.

• Published the National Gear and Equipment List online through Manula, providing an easily accessible and userfriendly webpage.

• Engaged in improved communication of national equipment priorities, policies, and processes through both the LMC and LAC groups.

BLACKSPOT FUNDING

The Coastal Safety team led national oversight of the 2024–2026 round of the Beach Drowning Blackspot Reduction Program (BDBRP), continuing to support states in identifying and addressing high-risk locations. This year’s priorities included:

• Ongoing engagement with state services and clubs to support infrastructure planning, hazard signage, community education, and water safety interventions.

These efforts align with broader national strategies aimed at reducing fatal and non-fatal drowning incidents in priority coastal areas.

BEACH SAFETY EQUIPMENT FUND

Our team worked alongside the States and SLSCs to complete 2023/24 Beach Safety Equipment Fund (BSEF) acquittals, ensuring accurate reporting and compliance with funding requirements. Key activities included:

• Finalisation of acquittals and preparation of the upcoming grant cycle, aimed at enabling clubs to apply for critical lifesaving equipment to support frontline patrolling requirements.

• Promotion and assessment of frontline asset needs, including rescue boards, tubes, IRBs, and patrol infrastructure whilst continuing to review applicable equipment that can be acquitted to suit the needs of clubs. The fund continues to be a crucial mechanism for ensuring clubs are well equipped to respond to emergencies and meet national safety standards.

LIFEGUARD MAGAZINE

The latest edition of Lifeguard Magazine, celebrating the work of the Australian Lifeguard Service and its dedicated professionals around the country, has been published. This issue features frontline stories, innovations in coastal safety, and practical insights into health and wellbeing on patrol. The magazine is available digitally, with printed copies distributed to lifeguard services nationwide.

LIFESAVING SYSTEMS

There has been a renewed focus on Lifesaving Systems, setting up a new committee, the Lifesaving Systems Advisory Group, to communicate the needs of platform users to the teams that maintain and develop the platforms.

This group, with representation from all states and territories, has been working to review current lifesaving technology, including the Incident Management System, the Patrol Ops app, 13SURF, and Beachsafe. The group is also reviewing the user base, from the beachgoing public, to beach operations and state operations centres.

Based on this understanding, the group will define what features and functionality are required to achieve the strategic objectives of Surf Life Saving now and into the future.

The outcome will be an evolution in the way we approach lifesaving technology, embracing innovation to deliver a forward-looking strategy that prioritises stakeholder needs.

WESTPAC LIFE SAVER RESCUE HELICOPTER SERVICE – SOUTHERN

INTRODUCTION

Floods, mountains, sharks, snow, overturned boats, east coast lows, remote bush searches, dangerous surf, new campaigns, celebrations, and saving lives are all part of what made up the 2024/25 season across NSW for the services based at Cape Banks and Moruya.

Through the delivery of essential and timely search and rescue services, the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service (Southern) has delivered across many regions of the state, often working with other key emergency services agencies to locate people and bring them home safely.

During this period 455 missions were performed, and we are proud to say that not one person we have rescued or assisted had to pay. This is possible thanks to our naming rights partner Westpac, who has been with us since the very beginning in September 1973, and who has now celebrated an incredible 51 years of support.

Further, the NSW Government has provided critical support to ensure we are able to do what we do best - save lives. We also rely heavily on the community for their support with fundraising and donations. It is this combination of funding that helps to keep us flying.

The past twelve months have been some of the busiest in many years. This can be partly attributed to a warm summer, several extreme weather events, and the public undertaking recreational activities that can unfortunately place them in situations they never expected. Incidents are taking place in all locations, from the coast to mountains, alpine regions to the bush, and both metropolitan and regional locations. No location is immune from the need for our services or that of other emergency service groups.

The NSW Police (POLAIR, Marine Area Command, Communications and Rescue) continue to be our key lead agency for many situations we attend, with the growing relationship benefiting the community as all services work together. We enjoy a positive relationship with the NSW Ambulance Service and Toll Ambulance Helicopter, with numerous deployments requiring us to work collaboratively to get people out of harm’s way and provide the best medical support possible.

SLSNSW continues to be a core part of who we are, as we work in with them to deliver essential coastal search and

rescue services across the state, as well as foster relationships and delivery of services across NSW.

As part of our day-to-day role, we work tirelessly with emergency services to reduce injury and loss of life, including but not limited to; Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), Rural Fire Service, Marine Rescue NSW, Fire and Rescue NSW, and the State Emergency Service (SES).

We are fortunate that due to the DNA of our service, our pilots, crews, engineers, and staff continue to deliver above and beyond expectations and demonstrate an unequalled passion for who we are and what we do.

We have a contractor who goes above and beyond in Helistar, and we acknowledge and thank them for the work they undertake in supporting us to deliver these essential services.

Westpac, as our naming rights partner, is always looking at new opportunities to assist in promoting what we do. They create opportunities for the service to be recognised and raise further funds. Without the support of Westpac, we simply would not be able to deliver the service we do, and we thank you.

To the NSW Government, Randwick Council, Club Liverpool, and other supporters and donors, we thank you for your support in helping us do what we do best – save lives.

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

The Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service is a training provider (in partnership with RTO provider, Risk, Response & Rescue) for a range of courses which have an emphasis on safety and search and rescue principles. The past twelve months have seen numerous courses delivered to many agencies, including Fire and Rescue NSW, Police, CareFlight, State Emergency Services (SES) and other groups, as well as individuals from the community. Courses have included:

• HUET (Helicopter Underwater Escape Training)

• Helicopter Emergency Egress Device (HEED)

• Safety and Movement Around Aircraft

• Human Interactions with Aircraft

Other programs include emergency service training, including various search and rescue exercises (SAREX). The purpose of these exercises is to test in real time, the response and coordination of search and rescue-based activities. This allows participants to hone their skills, while they learn from others during a variety of situations. This training gives participants valuable exposure to real-world emergencies and situations, meaning that in the event of a real situation, they know their role, what is required, and how to communicate and work collaboratively in an emergency. It is all about developing teamwork, so in situations of threat to others this can be minimised, and where possible, those at risk returned safely to loved ones.

GALA DINNER - 50 YEARS

At the start of the season, we proudly celebrated 50 years of service and the commencement of the first Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter service in Australia, which took to the air on the 29 September 1973.

A celebration dinner was held at Jones Bay Wharf with over 450 people joining in the 50-year celebrations. The event was hosted by Sylvia Jefferies who did an amazing job. With brief speeches from Westpac CEO Peter King, SLSA President John Baker AM ESM, and General Manager (Southern Region Helicopters) Shane Daw ESM, the night was about celebrating the journey of the service over the past 50 years.

In attendance were crew, engineers, and staff past and present. This included Ian Badham, one of the original leaders who brought the first service to life, and who through this initiative, created the legacy which can be found across Australia today with fifteen Westpac Rescue Helicopters and one Westpac Offshore Rescue Boat. A number of those who were rescued were also in attendance, and along with video stories of some of the incredible rescues performed, were interviewed and told stories from their perspective of what it was like being found and rescued.

Hearing some of the stories and comments like “I thought that both my best mate and my mate’s son were gone. We didn’t think we were going to make it,” through to “It felt like a massive relief. As soon as I saw the helicopter coming, I said to myself, ‘I’m going home’. I felt so happy,” brought home to many, that if not for the crews doing what they do, many people would not be with loved ones today. This certainly created a lot of pride amongst the crew, pilots, and support teams present, including their families.

SERVICE PROMOTION

The service enjoys a positive and engaging profile within the community. Over the past twelve months this has continued to develop with many activities taking place, including but not limited to:

Base Visits: Both the Sydney and Moruya bases continue to get requests for visits from community groups.

School Visits: Through Westpac, the Schools Program has continued to be delivered, with both Sydney and Moruya services visiting several schools throughout the year and telling those in attendance all about what we do and how they can stay safe.

State of Origin: We are proudly Blues supporters and one of our aircraft carried the Blues logos and was partly painted blue for the State of Origin series. Westpac used this opportunity to also donate $5,000 from each try to services in NSW (both Southern and Northern region) and Queensland Westpac Rescue Helicopters.

Rescue Helicopter Month: During the month of October, Westpac conducted Rescue Helicopter Month in its branches, raising much needed funds for the services right across Australia.

Budgy Smugglers: This initiative saw Budgy Smugglers design a pair of budgies (men’s and women’s) carrying the Westpac Rescue Helicopter image. The design was launched close to Christmas to raise awareness and funds for services across the country.

Open Air Cinema: The world’s best cinema was on Sydney Harbour. The Westpac Open Air Cinema saw the Westpac Rescue Helicopters promoted for over a month, with part proceeds coming back to support the services. We were delighted to provide a special fly by on one occasion.

SAFE AS: The SAFE AS campaign was launched by Westpac and heavily featured the Westpac Rescue Helicopters as the hero of the campaign, which provided great exposure for all services.

AVIATION OPERATIONS

Taskings through Police and SLSNSW made up most of the activity during the past twelve months, along with flood response supporting NSW SES. Emergency response, rescues, searches, and support to other emergency service agencies and the community has continued to be the core focus of our operations.

The missions we undertake are many and varied - from flood rescues to rescues along the coast and rescues from Mount Kosciusko; to searches, rescues, and recovery of persons from bush, mountain, alpine, and regional areas across the state; to assisting police and SES members with access to areas; to providing first aid and resuscitation for a range of incidents involving swimmers, bush walkers, rock fishers, boaters, watercraft, divers, and those participating in recreation around our waterways.

We have been tasked by AMSA, and worked with them and other emergency service agencies, for aviation and boating

incidents, missing bushwalkers, and EPIRB (Beacon) alerts. Several landings at Lifesaving Development and Leadership Programs have been undertaken, providing our future leaders an insight to the service that is delivered. Public awareness programs and promotions have been undertaken including numerous school visits, where we have been able to talk to children about the service, what we do, and how they can be safe.

EMERGENCY SERVICE DEVELOPMENT

The Sydney base is host to the NSW Emergency Services for the Metropolitan Regional Emergency Management meetings, training, and workshops. The base also hosts other emergency service groups, including that of NSW Ambulance.

We have had the pleasure of hosting visits from other agencies including the Australian Federal Police and our Defence agencies, in particular the Navy with various landings and activity.

Regular meetings and collaboration with our service and the NSW Police and NSW Ambulance take place. This ensures efficient communications and opportunities, resulting in better outcome for the general public.

During the year Shane Daw was invited by the Police Commissioner to take part in the NSW Police Blue Line program for community leaders. This program provides a unique opportunity to further strengthen and develop the relationship between the Police and the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service (Southern) as well as other community groups

SRHRS SNAPSHOT 2024/25

SPORT

EVENTS

The 2024 SHARKSKIN Australian IRB Championships were held on the Gold Coast from 18-22 July, with Miami Beach SLSC hosting 42 SLSCs from around Australia. The SHARKSKIN IRB Championships saw a 10% increase in entries from 2023, with 812 competitors taking part. Kirra SLSC was the outstanding performer in the Opens taking out the event, while Caves Beach SLSC and Kiama Downs SLSC were crowned champions in the U23 and Masters divisions respectively. The event also hosted the Interstate IRB Championships, with Queensland winning their 14th consecutive title.

Just a few weeks later, from 2-4 August, surf sports returned to the Gold Coast, with the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre hosting the SLSA Australian and Interstate Pool Rescue Championships. Currumbin SLSC were crowned champions. The Shaw and Partners Coolangatta Gold continued to grow with a very successful weekend of events held from 12-13 October, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the first Coolangatta Gold. Jemma Smith (Newport) returned to the podium, winning the long course, while Ali Day (Surfers Paradise) continued his dominance by taking out his tenth title. The event continued its growth with a slight increase in competitor numbers from 2023. Events conducted included the long course, short course, youth challenge, and downwind paddle.

A major change to the 2024/25 surf sports season saw Shaw and Partners Financial Services come on board as the naming rights partner for the Iron Series. The Shaw and Partners Iron Series kicked off in November, commencing with the Shaw and Partners Iron Series Trial presented by Race One Surf Craft. Returning to Tugun SLSC from 16-17 November, the event saw 15 male and 15 female athletes qualify for the Shaw and Partner Iron Series.

The series took on a whole new look, moving to an elimination style series from the former accumulation of points structure. A total of 56 athletes (28 males and 28 females) started in Round 1 in December. Four rounds were held over three weekends between December and early February, hosted by Wanda SLSC, Newcastle SLSC, and North Burleigh SLSC. Athletes raced over six formats and were slowly eliminated as the series progressed. The final format, the Grand Eliminator, took place in Round 4 at North Burleigh and commenced with the 12 remaining male and female athletes. The winners of the final male and final female race took out the series, with Lucy

Derbyshire (Surfers Paradise) and Connor Maggs (Newport) successful in being crowned the Shaw and Partners Iron Series Champions. The series was again broadcast live on the SBS network.

The 2025 Shaw and Partners Iron Series Next Gen continued as a pathway event for U19 athletes. The event was conducted over three rounds of racing from 31 January – 2 February at North Burleigh in conjunction with the third weekend of the Shaw and Partners Iron Series. Olivia Clues (Newport) and Byron Dieckmann (Maroochydore) were crowned the Shaw and Partners Iron Series Next Gen Champions.

The Super Surf Teams League (SSTL) continued to develop with the inclusion of a further U17 team structure. The SSTL enjoyed representation from teams from all states (except the NT), and it was fantastic to see the California Bears return for the second year in a row. A total of 21 teams across the U17 and Open divisions took part in the SSTL, with the QLD Seawolves taking out the Open division and the NSW Junior Blues successful in the inaugural U17 division.

The Australian Surf Life Saving Championships (the Aussies) returned to the Gold Coast from 29 March to 6 April. The Youth, Masters and Open Championships were conducted at North Kirra and Bilinga, with the surf boat competition relocated from Tugun in the final weeks before the Championships were due to commence due to severe beach erosion incurred by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Just over 7,500 competitors attended the Championships, representing 210 SLSCs, while 77 competitors represented various international clubs from Japan, South Africa, New Zealand and Spain.

After its inaugural year in 2024, Adaptive Surf Sports Events again proved to be a major highlight of the Aussies 2025 program. Athletes participated in a range of events including wade, surf race, board race, beach flags, beach sprint, and beach run.

The Australian Surf Life Saving Championships also hosted the SLSA Pathway Interstate on 1 April. The Pathway Interstate caters for U14 and U15 athletes with all states competing (except NT).

The ASRL Open & SLSA Surf Boat Interstate Championships were conducted at Coffs Harbour from 13-16 February, while the Australian Short Course Surf Boat Championships and Australian Surf Boat Selection event was held at Ocean Beach on the Central Coast of NSW from 7-8 December. Interstate Championships were successfully conducted over a range of disciplines including beach/surf events, surf boats, pool rescue, and IRB racing.

SPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

The Sport Advisory Committee (SAC) continued to meet over the course of 2024/25 under the Chair of Sport, Andrew Buhk. The SAC met virtually on a quarterly basis and took part in the SLSA Joint Portfolio Conference held on the Gold Coast in October.

A sincere thank you to Andrew Buhk (Buhky), who after 9 years of dedicated service stepped down from the role of Chair of Sport in May 2025.

During his tenure, Andrew has made a significant and lasting contribution to the development and delivery of surf lifesaving sport. He played an instrumental role in the SLSA Sport Review, helping to shape the strategic direction for the future. His commitment to innovation was evident in the successful introduction of Live Heats, bringing greater efficiency, transparency, and engagement to our competitions.

Under his leadership, the Iron Series returned to SLSA, strengthening the profile of our sport and providing a platform for our athletes to shine at the highest level. Equally important has been his support for inclusivity, with the introduction of Adaptive Events at the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships — a milestone achievement that reflects the true spirit and values of surf lifesaving. Andrew’s dedication, vision, and steady leadership have left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy will continue to benefit athletes, officials, and members for years to come. On behalf of Surf Life Saving Australia, we extend our deepest gratitude for his service and contribution.

After a thorough selection process Rachael Rylance of Life Saving Victoria was selected as the new Chair of Sport. We wish Rachael all the best in her new role.

SPORT MANAGEMENT GROUP

The Sport Management Group, comprised of the various state sport managers and chaired by the SLSA Sport Manager Wayne Druery, met virtually monthly. The State Sport Management Group continued to have a strong focus on improving and sharing information regarding the operational delivery of surf sports across the country.

HIGH PERFORMANCE, PATHWAYS & PARTICIPATION

The 2024/25 season was a landmark year for SLSA’s high performance programs, marked by world-class performances, meaningful connection, and continued innovation. From the triumphs of the Australian Life Saving Team (ALT) at the World Championships on home soil, to the spirited campaign of our Surf Boat Team in New

Zealand, our athletes, coaches, and support staff once again demonstrated the strength of our national system. Alongside results, we celebrated the legacy of our sport through alumni engagement and continued to invest in digital platforms to support athlete development. This year’s highlights reflect the depth of talent and dedication across the country and the collective commitment to excellence, growth, and inclusion.

COACHING & OFFICIATING CONFERENCE

On 28–29 June 2025, SLSA hosted the inaugural Coaching & Officiating Conference at Bondi Pavilion, bringing together 121 delegates (63 officials, 58 coaches) to build capability and consistency sport-wide and nation-wide. The two-day program blended across all delegates with keynotes from the Australian Sports Commission and Football Australia. The delegates broke into stream for the remainder of the program to experience practical workshops, mentoring and Q&A, reinforcing contemporary approaches to coaching, officiating, athlete development, effective communication, performance nutrition, plus safety and wellbeing to name a few key areas.

A key outcome was 28 coaches completing their Performance Coach accreditation led by SLSA Coaching Advisor Sharlene Kelly. Delegates left with practical tools, stronger networks and clear alignment for the 2025–26 season –supporting safe, inclusive and high-performing environments across our clubs and states. SLSA would like to thank the Australian Sports Commission for supporting this event.

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT

The Sports Hub platform continues to grow as a vital resource for athletes and coaches. We are also enhancing the ALT High Performance Online Induction process across the Hub to better support Australian National Team members in their preparation and professionalism.

2024 LIFESAVING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Gold Coast proudly hosted the 2024 Lifesaving World Championships, our sport’s pinnacle international event. The ALT delivered an outstanding performance, crowned World Champions in both the Open and Youth categories, narrowly overcoming our Trans-Tasman rivals, New Zealand.

Captained by Mariah Jones and Jake Smith, the Open Team led with pride and passion. Mariah described the experience as “one I will never forget,” while Jake reflected on “the journey, the people, and having the ability to deliver on Aussie soil.” A standout moment was the Youth Women’s 4 x 50m Obstacle Relay team, who broke the world record with a time of 1:52.55congratulations to Piper Asquith, Jemma Holt, Bianca Rayward, and Jasmine Rayward.

National Teams Overall Point Scores:

• Youth: Australia 973, New Zealand 774 and France 759

• Open: Australia 907, New Zealand 879 and France 629

• IRB: New Zealand 1st Place, Australia 2nd Place, Great Britain 3rd Place

AUSTRALIAN LIFE SAVING TEAM ALUMNI

Prior to competition, a special Australian Life Saving Team Alumni event brought past and present team members together at Aussie HQ. Capped team members reunited to send their well-wishes to the current athletes. Inspiring stories were shared by legends Ky Hurst, Jenny Parry, Karla Gilbert, and Grant Wilkinson, with Courtney Hancock hosting a memorable panel discussion. Thank you to all who attended.

TRANS-TASMAN SURF BOAT TEST SERIES

Our 2025 Australian Surf Boat Team delivered an impressive campaign at the Trans-Tasman Surf Boat Test Series in Waihi, New Zealand.

The Open Men’s and Women’s Teams showcased dominance, with the men winning all three rounds and the women winning two out of three. The U23 Development Division featured exciting competition, with the men sweeping their rounds and the women performing strongly against formidable New Zealand opposition. With a tie in points for the U23 division, a relay decider was required, with New Zealand proving just too strong in the final race.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We sincerely thank our dedicated team of selectors, Shayne Baker OAM, Kristyl Smith, and Sean Davis, for their expertise and hard work throughout the season.

Enormous gratitude also goes to our ALT coaches, managers, and support staff including Zayne Hamill, Ky Hurst, Andrew Bowden, Craig Holden, Rachelle King, Sam Dick, John Brennan OAM, Melinda Jackson, Craig Law, Dr Natalie Hood, Matt Palmer, Josh Carter, Nick Marshall, and Annabelle Keene. Your tireless efforts make international and domestic success possible.

Special mention to our home coaches, whose daily support and preparation of athletes are integral to our continued achievements.

SPORTS RESULTS

2024 INTERSTATE IRB CHAMPIONSHIPS

Miami Beach, QLD 18 July 2024

2024 SHARKSKIN AUSTRALIAN IRB CHAMPIONSHIPS

Miami Beach, QLD 18-21 July 2024

2024 INTERSTATE POOL RESCUE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, QLD 4-6 August

2024 AUSTRALIAN POOL RESCUE CHAMPIONSHIPS Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, QLD 4-6 August

2024 SHAW AND PARTNERS COOLANGATTA GOLD

Coolangatta, QLD, 12-13 October 2024

Wanda,

Coffs Harbour, NSW, 14 February 2025

AUSTRALIAN LIFESAVING TEAM

2024 LIFESAVING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

YOUTH TEAM

NAME SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB

Mischa Boniface Mollymook

Bianca Rayward Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park

Jasmine Rayward (captain) Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park

Jemma Holt Mordialloc Lifesaving Club

Lani Waller Redhead

Piper Asquith Northcliffe

Brayden Woodford Bulli

Ethan Callaghan Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park

Henry Simpson Alexandra Headlands

Kai Gilbert Northcliffe

Kobe Sorensen North Cronulla

Riley Brennan (captain) Currumbin

Chelsea Jones Currumbin

Britney Ingr Kurrawa

Lana Rogers Northcliffe

Mariah Jones (captain) Tweed Heads and Coolangatta

Naomi Scott Northcliffe

Rachel Eddy Currumbin

Corey Fletcher Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park

Harrison Hynes Trigg Island

Jake Smith (captain) Trigg Island

James Koch Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park

Jason Gough Northcliffe

Zach Morris Northcliffe YOUTH SUPPORT TEAM

Craig Holden National Youth Coach

Sam Dick Assistant Coach

Rachelle King Assistant Coach

Melinda Jackson Team Manager

Craig Law Assistant Team Manager

Josh Carter Physiotherapist

YOUTH TEAM RESERVES

Olivia Clues Newport

Kaitlin Rees Swansea Belmont

Kobi Holden Currumbin/Ellitott Heads

Taj Andrews Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park

Noah Maggs Newport

Zayne Hamill National Open Coach

Andrew Bowden Open Coach

Ky Hurst Open Coach

John Brennan Team Manager

Nick Marshall Physiotherapist

Matt Palmer Athlete Support Coordinator

Natalie Hood Chief Medical Officer

Rebecca Hartman Athlete Mentor

Annabelle Keene Sports Scientist

OPEN TEAM RESERVES

Callum Brennan Currumbin

Cooper Williams Alexandra Headland

Tiarnee Massie Maroochydore

Cyra Bender Northcliffe

IRB TEAM

NAME SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB

Benjamin Domeracki (captain) Kirra

Isaac Nation Kirra

Taylor Rawlings Kirra

Michael McAteer Kirra

Chelsea Gillett Kirra

Bailie Nash Kirra

Josephine Dutton Kirra

Te'a Domeracki Kirra

IRB SUPPORT TEAM

NAME POSITION

Andrew McAuliffe Coach

Anthony Cassone Team Manager

Martin Lynch Sprint Coach

Natalie Hood Chief Medical Officer

Narelle Duggan High Performance & Pathways Manager

2025 TRANS-TASMAN SURF BOAT TEST SERIES

OPEN WOMEN - CURRUMBIN

NAME

Lisa Moseley (captain)

Tara Coates

Sascha O’Keefe

Kelissa Taylor

Matthew Wildman (sweep)

OPEN MEN –

BULLI

NAME

Heath Mercer

Kyle Mercer

Dean Roberts

Fraser Worthington

Shane Geloven (sweep)

U23 DEVELOPMENT WOMEN - NEWPORT

NAME

Ella Gale

Alani Barros

April McCarney

Zoe Ellie

Michael King (sweep)

U23 DEVELOPMENT MEN – SOUTH CURL CURL

NAME

Alan Perry

Angus Campbell

David Campbell

Jack Rivert

Mark Spiteri (sweep)

SUPPORT TEAM

NAME POSITION

Greg Heard Team Manager

Don Cotterill Asst. Team Manager

Sophie Moore Physio

Narelle Duggan SLSA

LEARNING, DEVELOPMENT & PARTICIPATION

In 2024/25, the Learning, Development and Participation portfolio continued to evolve to ensure our members were supported. The focus remained on strengthening compliance, improving systems, supporting leadership growth and capability, and enhancing the member experience at every stage of their journey.

DEVELOPMENT

NATIONAL PROGRAMS AND CAPABILITY BUILDING

The National Leadership College and National Leaders’ Masterclass programs once again brought together emerging leaders from across the country. The National Leadership College took place in Sydney from the 26 January – 1 February 2025, with 24 participants attending. 28 participants were selected to attend the National Leaders’ Masterclass, which was held at the University of South Australia from 24-28 July 2024. Both programs welcomed representatives from SLS New Zealand, highlighting our commitment to collaboration and shared learning.

The Women’s Mentoring Program continued its strong trajectory, with Cohort 5 graduating in October 2024

and Cohort 6 commencing in August 2024. This program continues to build strong female leadership capacity across the movement with over 200 women having participated. Through collaboration with the Centre of Excellence for Cultural Leadership, SLSA supported initiatives including the Volunteer Satisfaction Survey, an online Leadership Program, and a pilot Emerging Leaders Program.

Junior member engagement remained a key priority. A full review of the Age Manager course was completed, ensuring our youngest members have access to Age Managers who are well trained in contemporary, engaging, and inclusive programming. SLSA also supported the national Youth Working Group, amplifying youth voices to influence strategy and programs at all levels.

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

We delivered a streamlined National Medal and Patrol Service Awards program, recognising the vital contributions of our volunteers and their commitment to service. Through the SLSA Recognition and Appreciation Framework, we also provided clarity and consistency for states and territories to acknowledge their members.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION

Over the past year, SLSA has continued to embed its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Framework, launched in November 2024. With support from the new DEI Advisory Working Group, we have begun developing practical club guidelines, enhanced existing policies, and integrated DEI into business planning, helping drive progress of the 88 action items identified in the Framework.

SLSA proudly maintained Gold Status in the Pride in Sport Index in 2024/25, reflecting our strong commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion, supported through our ongoing relationship with Lifesavers with Pride.

We also collaborated with the Australian Sporting Alliance for People with Disabilities (ASAPD) to deliver the 2025 Adaptive Events at the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships (the Aussies) and continued our Inclusive Beaches Grant program. New engagement with Diversity Australia is supporting further strategies to strengthen community connections.

Importantly, we commenced the development of our first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). A RAP Working Group was formed to lead the creation of a Reflect RAP, which will guide stronger engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Across all this work, SLSA remains committed to fostering safe, respectful, and welcoming environments where all individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered.

TECHNOLOGY

We extended our contract with our Learning Management System (LMS) provider through to June 2026, ensuring ongoing stability and support for our online learning systems. Multiple ICT enhancements were delivered across L&D applications, including improvements to online forms, the Nipper solution, and Assessing App to reduce administrative burden.

OVERALL ELEARNING SNAPSHOT

* Skills maintenance not included

EDUCATION

RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT BUILDING

A major review of the IRB Crew, Silver Medallion IRB Driver, and Rescue Watercraft course resources was completed. The process included extensive member consultation, working groups, and piloting. The resources were reviewed as part of the ongoing SLSA course review schedule which ensures national resources continue to achieve their intended purpose and meet best practice. A 9th edition IRB Training Manual supports the resources, with all RWC content removed and now contained in the 1st edition RWC Training Manual. Both manuals are available for free to all members in Manula.

A Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Awareness online course was released as a directive of the SLSA board. The course provides members with an understanding of what constitutes sexual harassment and misconduct, the impacts of sexual harassment and misconduct, and how to respond to and report incidents of sexual harassment and misconduct within SLS. The course became part of the 2024/25 skills maintenance requirements and is now embedded in core awards.

COMPLIANCE

We successfully achieved re-registration of the SLSA Registered Training Organisation (RTO) for a further seven years, a significant milestone that reinforces our commitment to high-quality, compliant training delivery. Ongoing consultation with members, the States, and key stakeholders supported enhancements to SurfGuard and sustained our compliance across VET frameworks.

The articulated credit model has continued to be promoted to the States, with Units of Competency for swift water rescue now included in the SLSA RTO scope of registration in partnership with the Surf Life Saving Australia Flood and Swift Water Rescue Centre of Excellence in Tasmania.

NATIONAL REPRESENTATION AND SECTOR ENGAGEMENT

SLSA was proud to represent the movement at key education and training forums and conferences across the country. Our leadership ensured that the voice of SLS was present in national VET discussions, including updates on training reforms and compliance matters affecting volunteer-based RTOs, particularly with the changes to the Standards for RTOs.

SLSA also continued to participate in learning and development working groups, ensuring member consultation and national alignment remain central to our approach.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I would like to thank the respective portfolio Chairs, members of the Advisory Committees, and the State Managers for their input into all the successes we have had this year. Two of our Chairs, Chris Jacobson, Chair of Lifesaving and Andrew Buhk, Chair of Sport have retired having fulfilled their maximum of nine years in their respective positions. On behalf of all members, I thank them for their leadership, initiatives, and hard work in ensuring Surf Life Saving continues to save lives, create great Australians, and build better communities. We welcome Glen Gallagher, (Lifesaving) and Rachael Rylance, (Sport) to join Tracey Hare-Boyd, (Education) and Nancy Joseph, (Development) as Chairs of their respective portfolios.

Peter George AM COM Head of Mission

SECTION 03

FUNDRAISING & CORPORATE PARTNERS

FUNDRAISING & CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS

FUNDRAISING AND PHILANTHROPIC ACTIVITIES

2024/25 was a record-breaking year for fundraising and philanthropy. This marked a historic high in SLS fundraising and philanthropic efforts, with over $9.8 million distributed to the SLS State entities and the Northern Territory. This represents a staggering $3.8 million increase from the previous year, making it the largest distribution since the formation of our national fundraising arm.

National fundraising programs encompass Surf Life Saving Lotteries as well as a variety of philanthropic initiatives and appeals. Despite the ongoing cost-of-living pressures, Australians stood tall in their support of our iconic cause and the selfless dedication of volunteer surf lifesavers. Their impact in helping reduce coastal drowning cannot be overstated, and to each supporter, SLS extends its deepest thanks.

Generous regular donors contributed more than $3.9 million as part of our Guardians of the Surf monthly giving program. Additionally, we saw 5,465 active donors contribute over $1,055,065 in one-time donations, with an average gift of $145.11.

In addition to the generosity of individual donors, our corporate partners helped elevate the impact of our appeals even further:

• Isuzu UTE Australia matched donor contributions (up to a limit) during our Tax Appeal, helping us raise over $584,000.

• Ampol ignited support nationwide with its in-store donation drive, resulting in more than $276,000.

Through our partnership with trusted online Will-writing services, supporters were offered the opportunity to create or update a simple Will at no cost. This initiative resulted in 44 new online pledges and an estimated future income of $1,296,192. In addition, almost 850 supporters requested SLSA’s legacy guide, learning how to leave a meaningful gift-in-Will. Our bequest program now proudly holds 655 confirmed pledges.

In July, we celebrated the return of SLSWA to national fundraising programs, a milestone for our federation. This followed 18 months of collaboration between SLSWA and SLSA, aligning with best-practice fundraising standards. The return marks SLSA’s emergence as a national leader in fundraising excellence, offering SLSWA increased scale, reduced risk, and greater reach, ultimately benefiting WA SLSCs and supporters.

In October, SLSA introduced its new bespoke customer relationship management (CRM) system tailored to fundraising operations and SLS Lotteries. Developed over two and a half years in partnership with expert technologists, the system is enhancing efficiency and elevating supporter engagement. Additional features, including a personalised online dashboard, are underway allowing supporters to manage contributions their way.

SLS Lotteries remains one of Australia’s largest House and Land charitable lottery programs, featuring six major prize home draws annually along with smaller lotteries and trade promotions. Supporters can join the Champions Club as a subscriber to never miss a prize home draw. New members are surveyed upon joining, with over 85% stating their primary motivation is to support SLS, especially through training, equipment, and beach safety.

For the fifth consecutive year, the subscriber program saw remarkable growth, contributing an additional $6.5 million to total revenue delivered. This helped deliver SLS Lotteries its highest ever revenue result, up 11.8% on the previous year. Loyal subscribers now account for 84.4% of Surf Lotteries’ total annual income.

SLS Lotteries also continued the SLSC web referral program, enabling clubs to fundraise with ease. 50% of each lottery ticket sold via dedicated club pages went directly to those clubs, raising more than $35,000 for participating SLSCs. We express heartfelt thanks to our generous donors, loyal subscribers, and community partners. Their unwavering support makes it possible to distribute critical funding to the SLS State entities nationwide. These funds are directed to where they are needed most to assist vital coastal safety initiatives, including rescue equipment, volunteer training, community education, coastal safety research, and patrol services. The contributions of our supporters create real impact; saving lives on and off the beach, fostering stronger communities, and championing water safety. It is this collective commitment that has helped SLSA be named as Australia’s second most trusted charity by RepTrak, a recognition that reflects the strength of our mission and the trust the Australian public place in us every day.

GRANT SEEKING UNIT

This financial year was also a record-breaking one for the Grant Seeking Unit (GSU). $14.1 million was secured for SLS entities nationally, our highest result since inception in 2009. This milestone represents a 68% increase from last year’s $8.4 million and surpasses our previous record of $11.9 million set in 2022.

A total of 692 successful grants were secured across the country, reflecting both the demand for funding and the trust placed in SLS by government and philanthropic partners. Of the total funding, $8.65 million was directed towards infrastructure projects, highlighting the urgent need among clubs to upgrade ageing facilities, respond to growing community demand, and ensure compliance with modern standards of accessibility and inclusion. A further $3.8 million supported the delivery of frontline lifesaving equipment and programs.

We also recommenced work with SLSWA this financial year, assisting clubs across the state to raise over $500,000 in our first year back. Record outcomes were achieved for SLSQ ($3.9 million), SLSNT ($320,000), and SLSSA ($2.7 million), further demonstrating the strength of our partnerships across the country.

This success would not be possible without the continued investment from SLSA, the States, and the NT. Their longterm support ensures the sustainability of the GSU and reflects a shared commitment to supporting volunteers and strengthening community safety. At the grassroots level, this funding enables clubs, often run entirely by volunteers, to purchase lifesaving equipment, deliver youth and lifesaver training, and improve facilities to better serve their communities. We are deeply grateful for this support and for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated individuals who give so much of themselves to their clubs and communities.

An example of what this support makes possible is Trigg Island SLSC’s Run, Ride, Swim initiative, funded through the Outdoor Active Recreation Participation Program. With assistance from the GSU in securing funding, the club has been able to deliver an inclusive outdoor program, engaging Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander peoples and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) youth in activities like running, rowing, and mountain biking. Delivered in partnership with schools, the Edmund Rice Foundation, and the Kalamunda Mountain Bike Collective, the program builds confidence, connection, and life skills. More than a recreational initiative, Run, Ride, Swim creates clear pathways into surf lifesaving, volunteering, and broader community involvement, highlighting how targeted funding can foster real and lasting impact.

As we reflect on the past year, we remain focused on strengthening our partnerships and continuing to support the Surf Life Saving movement through responsive, effective, and community-led grant services.

SURF LIFE SAVING RESCUE FUND

The Surf Life Saving Rescue Fund is a charitable investment scheme operated by the SLS Foundation. The fund can accept investments only on behalf of Surf Life Saving entities that are members of, or affiliated with, SLSA. The objective of the Surf Life Saving Rescue Fund is to maximise the net (after fees) earnings of the funds under management at an acceptable level of risk that protects the capital value of the investments.

The Surf Life Saving Rescue Fund has total funds of $47.8M under management as of 30 June 2025. The long-term fund achieved a return of 13.68% underperforming its benchmark by -0.83%. By pooling funds, the fund is able to access large scale and specialised investment resources that would not otherwise be available to individual Surf Life Saving entities, to maximise their net investment returns.

The cost of administering the Surf Life Saving Rescue Fund is borne by the SLS Foundation, with no fees charged to investors or retained by the fund. An independent investment committee provides oversight and strategic advice on the effective investment of the fund. Sincere thanks to our committee members Ed Prendergast, Darrin Bragg, and Ian McLean for their commitment and support during the past year.

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS

SLSA acknowledges and thanks our Corporate Partners for their ongoing commitment to the movement.

As an organisation, SLSA aims to form and maintain partnerships that echo our own values and vision for the future amid an ever-changing social landscape.

Our partners live and breathe the movement, and not only provide funding, but also help to create leveraging opportunities that benefit both parties by showcasing the partnership message, spreading important water safety messaging, and ultimately, saving lives.

A partnership with SLSA allows a business to position themselves alongside one of Australia’s most iconic community organisations and one of the top two most trusted charities in the country.

The relationship we have with our long-term major national partners in Ampol, DHL, Isuzu UTE Australia, and Westpac over this period, are examples of SLSA’s commitment to the longevity and growth of our corporate connection. SLSA were also thrilled to announce a new major national partner in Qantas who we look forward to working with for many years to come.

We are also honoured to continue our relationships with our Sponsors, BRP, Dulux, FINZ and Kellogg’s, who are also deeply committed to the movement. Their support allows us to concentrate on what we do best, saving lives and keeping our beaches and communities safe.

SLSA is extremely proud of our partnership portfolio, and we recognise and appreciate the valuable contributions that our partners make to the organisation.

We continue to actively seek new partners to support the movement and help fund these vital services that we provide to the Australian community.

LICENSING AND MERCHANDISE

SLS’s intellectual property (IP) has been built up over a significant foundation of service to the Australian community. SLSA owns various registered trademarks, which we manage on behalf of the entire organisation including: the Surf Life Saving logo, red and yellow patrol flags, patrol caps, the iconic red and yellow patrol uniform, and terms such as ‘Surf Rescue’ and ‘Nippers’. It is our responsibility to ensure that the use of our brand is protected.

SLS uses these images and marks in several places, including on our patrol uniforms and equipment designating that they are official surf lifesavers and surf lifesaving property, as well as on carefully selected licensed product.

Licensed application of these marks on retail merchandise assists in generating revenue for the organisation through royalty payments and brings greater awareness of our organisation.

We continue to seek appropriate, complementary product categories for the SLSA brand.

The online store is an avenue that we are growing and allows SLSA licensees a channel to sell their products alongside their own retail channels. The public facing facet of the online store allows SLSA to connect with a global audience and have increased licensed merchandise revenue and awareness for our brand.

John Brennan OAM Head of Fundraising and Commercial

PARTNERSHIPS

Surf Life Saving Australia thanks our corporate and government partners who have supported us in 2024/25.

MAJOR NATIONAL PARTNERS

PARTNERS

SPONSORS

GOVERNMENT PARTNERS

SHARED SERVICES

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications positively enhanced the awareness, brand and profile of SLSA, supporting all areas of the organisation through media, public relations, digital strategies, and content.

The achievements and stories of our volunteer surf lifesavers through programs such as National Leadership College, National Leaders’ Masterclass, Women’s Mentoring Program, National Medals, and King’s Birthday Honours, were promoted via SLSA’s owned channels and in metro and regional media throughout the year.

The National Coastal Safety Report (NCSR) and the National Drowning Report were two key documents produced and promoted to reinforce SLSA’s position as the peak body for coastal water safety and drowning prevention in Australia. The NCSR showcased our capacity as an organisation. It is a valuable resource for awareness, education, research, and advocacy, and informs further marketing and communications strategies.

SLSA partnered with Royal Life Saving Australia to produce the National Drowning Report, which provides the annual assessment of drowning in Australia against historical data from both Royal Life Saving Australia and SLSA. The report was read online 2,437 times and received national media coverage.

At the conclusion of summer, a Summer Coastal Drowning Report was produced, and the national drowning tally was maintained on sls.com.au.

SLSA’s sporting events continue to attract national and international interest. The final two hours of The Shaw and Partners Coolangatta Gold was broadcast live on free-to-air SBS and streamed via SBS On-Demand, as were the Open finals of The Australian Surf Life Saving Championship. The Nutri-Grain Nipper and Youth Australian Championship and the Open heats were also streamed live on YouTube globally 298,074 times.

The Shaw and Partners Iron Series was broadcast on SBS in the final year of a three-year TV rights agreement. The series reached a television audience of 972,892 and was streamed a further 19,400 via SBS On-Demand.

Digital and social engagement was a key focus throughout the year, with growth across all major platforms. Communications with members remains a strong priority, with all volunteers encouraged to stay connected and up to date with the latest information by following our digital and social channels.

6.3 MILLION MILLION PAGE VIEWS OUR DIGITAL AND SOCIAL MEDIA FOOTPRINT AS OF 30 JUNE 2025

751,482 ACTIVE USERS

5 MILLION ACCOUNTS REACHED

611,386 VIDEO VIEWS 626,033 ENGAGEMENTS

106,571 FOLLOWERS (+2%)

1.5 MILLION ACCOUNTS REACHED

254,718 ENGAGEMENTS

79,319 IMPRESSIONS

49,400 FOLLOWERS (+5.7%)

124,123 IMPRESSIONS 1,175 ENGAGEMENTS 9,746 FOLLOWERS (+11%) 14,858 FOLLOWERS (+6%)

3,599 ENGAGEMENTS

MARKETING

Marketing supported SLSA’s organisational needs by identifying audience demands and driving participation and engagement with events, programs, and initiatives. Through major above the line campaigns, marketing built brand awareness, informed strategic decisions through research and insights, and strengthened SLSA’s position as the peak body for coastal water safety and drowning prevention in Australia. Marketing activities aligned with organisational goals, contributing to growth, visibility, and community impact. Additionally, these marketing-led initiatives were realised in FY2025.

NATIONAL WATER SAFETY CAMPAIGNSTOP LOOK STAY ALIVE

The National Water Safety Campaign was co-funded by SLSNSW, SLSQ, SLSWA and SLST, with additional support from the NSW Government.

Underpinning the campaign was the SLSA developed Beach Passport, an interactive online education tool designed to put easily digestible water safety information directly into the hands of more members of the public than ever before.

Australian actor and former nipper and surf lifesaver, Angus Sampson, was enlisted to be the face of the campaign, which was launched online with a 1:40 video on 19 November 2024, gaining over 100,000 organic video views.

Creative testing was conducted nationally in November amongst 1,233 respondents aged 18+.

KEY FINDINGS:

The new campaign TVC is well understood and appreciated.

• Stop-Look-Stay Alive message is multidimensional and is adaptable.

• It’s well liked: 74% like it (29% like it a lot), whilst only 3% dislike it.

• 87% agree that this ad makes them think about how to stay safe at the beach and 85% agree that this ad makes them want to swim between the red and yellow flags where possible.

• 96% of swimmers were more likely to STOP and LOOK for rips.

• Hazard perception increased, and preference for unpatrolled beaches dropped from 18% to 13% among exposed audiences.

Television and digital advertising featuring 30” and 15” edits began on 2 December 2024, followed by a large format outdoor campaign which ran across the summer school holidays in high traffic arterials leading to coastal locations and around airports.

MEDIA CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS

TELEVISION

• A total of 10,497 TV spots were delivered during the campaign. This was made up of 1,145 paid spots and 9,352 bonus/CSA spots.

• The campaign ran in the following markets: Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Tasmania, Melbourne, Adelaide, Northern Rivers, Newcastle/Central Coast, Wollongong, Maryborough, Townsville, WA.

• The campaign primarily ran on the 7 Network with key placements in the Australia vs Pakistan T20 Series, BBL, 7 News, Sunrise and Home & Away.

• Metro TV reached 3.5 million people 18+ (note: On 29 December TV measurement currency changed to VOZ data from the legacy TAM data. Unfortunately, as part of this change, Reach will no longer be measured for regional submarkets).

• Target demographic reach (Males 18+): 1.2 million.

DIGITAL VIDEO

• The campaign also ran across digital video and BVOD channels concurrently.

• Networks included 10Play, Kayo, YouTube, News Corp and Optus Sport (incl. in-venue screens).

• These channels delivered 4.8 million impressions with a total reach of 1.9 million across connected TVs (81%), desktop (9%) and mobile device (6%).

coast (after exposure to the

The coast (before exposure to the TVC)

The beach (after exposure to the TVC) The beach (before exposure to the TVC)

coast (after exposure to the TVC)

OUTDOOR

• Outdoor digital and static billboards were placed in the following locations, targeting coastal arterials and tourist transit areas such as airports and transport hubs:

‒ NSW: Sydney (incl. Bondi Junction), Sydney Airport, South Coast, Central Coast

‒ QLD: Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Whitsunday Cruise Terminal, Gold Coast Airport, Sunshine Coast Airport

‒ WA: Perth, Perth Airport

‒ TAS: Hobart Airport

• Outdoor reached 1.7 million people via 18.3 million impressions.

DIGITAL/SOCIAL

• Digital display delivered 2.6 million impressions with a reach of 871,000 and a CTR of 0.1%.

• Social media amassed 4.7 million impressions with 1.1 million unique reach and 35,000 clicks to the Beach Passport. Campaign amplification was achieved in NSW through a collaborative effort with RLSSA NSW, Austswim, and NSW Parks and Wildlife.

Further evaluation was conducted nationally amongst 3073 people aged 16+ in April after the conclusion of the campaign, which found that the campaign reached more people than any SLSA campaign in the past 10 years.

More people recalled having seen, read, or heard advertising from SLSA within three months than any point in the past 10 years. Over 32% of people recall seeing at least one element of the Stop Look Stay Alive campaign (either TV, online or outdoor), and 8% of people recall seeing it multiple times.

BEACH PASSPORT

Beach Passport was developed by SLSA as an introductory water safety training course in response to the issue of drowning at unpatrolled locations.

The user-friendly 10-minute virtual course provided the following benefits:

• Position SLSA as the peak water and coastal safety authority within the wider community in coastal and non-coastal regions.

• Help to address drowning that occurs away from patrolled beaches by starting a water safety journey for members of the public with low awareness.

• Provide measurable and reportable user data.

• Provide key water safety content in an easy to access mobile format.

• Capture customer leads for distribution to club recruitment, donor, employment, and other areas of the movement.

SYD International Exit Spectacular Sydney

• Allow for the Beach Passport to become an annual occurrence (proficiency) at the beginning of summer.

• Created an asset that formed a critical piece of the Qantas partnership agreement.

BEACH PASSPORT IMPACT

• Beach Passport was launched simultaneously with the National Water Safety Campaign.

• Over 37,000 people completed Beach Passport during the 2024/25 season.

• Over 24,000 email addresses were captured for further communications.

• Over 115,000 people visited the Beach Passport website.

BEFORE YOU GO IN INTO THE DRAW TO MILLION POINTS

RESEARCH

SLSA uses research to underpin our strategic objectives, with the SLSA research department driving a range of innovative projects. This includes research initiatives focused on drowning prevention, rip current safety, bystander rescues, public rescue equipment, community engagements, surf sports safety, disaster resilience and community preparedness, and drowning and injury epidemiology to highlight current and emergent challenges and factors facing SLS across the country.

SLSA research is uniquely placed to support SLSA’s commitment to evidence-informed practices, where research outcomes guide the development of education, technology, communications, and operations to reduce coastal drowning deaths and other fatalities around Australia.

INCIDENT AND MORTALITY REPORTING

SLSA research monitors all deaths that occur on, in, or around water across the country and reports on this throughout the year with three key reports. This ensures we have a holistic understanding of drowning and other injury that occurs across the country. This not only strengthens our collaborative relationship with other data custodians and research teams, but also enables us to view the coastal burden proportionally to national numbers.

SUMMER COASTAL DROWNING REPORT 2024/25

The Summer Coastal Drowning Report 2024/25 highlighted the coastal drowning burden during our peak season of risk. For the second year, coastal drowning and lifesaving statistics were tracked daily and published on the SLS website.

Historically 40% of coastal drowning deaths in Australia occur during summer. During the 2024/25 summer, 51 coastal drowning deaths were recorded, -22% compared with last summer (n=65) and equal to the 10-year average (n=51). These tragic incidents have a devastating impact on families and friends, a result which could have been far worse if not for the 5,522 rescues, 1,316,050 preventative actions, and 45,555 first aid treatments performed by surf lifesaving personnel. It is estimated that these actions equate to an overall value of $5,284,979,956 to the community.

Males are again overrepresented, accounting for over 9 in 10 drowning deaths (92%). Rip currents, the number on coastal hazard, were a causal factor in at least 38% of summer beach drowning deaths, with 60% of these incidents occurring during public holiday periods (Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day and Australia Day long weekend). Swimming at locations away from Surf Life Saving services, and within regional or remote locations highlighted as a major risk, with all summer coastal drowning deaths occurring at unpatrolled locations or outside of patrolled hours.

NATIONAL DROWNING REPORT 2025

SLSA prepared the National Drowning Report 2025 in partnership with Royal Life Saving Australia, which serves as stark reminder to keep water safety top of mind. The National Drowning Report 2025 was released by The Hon Anika Wells, Minister for Communications, Minister for Sport, found there were 357 drowning deaths over 2024/25, which is 27% above the ten-year average (n=278), and the highest ever number of drowning deaths nationally, since records began. Almost half occurred in coastal and ocean waters (43%, n=154).

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2025

The National Coastal Safety Report 2025 revealed that a tragic 239 lives were lost in coastal environments in 2024/25. This number includes 154 drowning deaths, the highest ever recorded, representing a 3% increase from last year and 21% above the 10-year average for coastal drowning. All coastal drowning deaths occurred outside of the red and yellow flags or patrol times, underscoring the urgent need for continued vigilance and innovation in coastal safety to prevent coastal drowning.

Males remained a high-risk demographic (87%), 6.8 times more likely to drown compared to females. Older Australians have again emerged as the highest risk cohort, with one in four coastal drowning decedents aged 60-69 years (25%) and 55+year olds comprising 55% of the coastal drowning burden. Beaches claimed 82 lives, all occurring outside patrol times or at unpatrolled beaches away from SLS services. Swimming/ wading was the most common activity prior to drowning (32%), followed by boating/PWC (14%), then equally by snorkelling and falls (9% each). Rip currents remain the leading coastal hazard, contributing to more than one in three beach drowning deaths.

These numbers would have been far worse if not for the incredible efforts of SLS members who work tirelessly to protect beachgoers.

COLLABORATION & INNOVATION

Collaboration is key to drowning prevention research and SLSA research has built a strong collaborative network to achieve research outcomes that benefit the organisation. The following projects are evidence of this collaboration across SLS State Centres, universities, and other stakeholders across Australia and internationally.

PUBLIC RESCUE EQUIPMENT (PRE)

Launched in March 2025, the two-year PRE Project is a national collaboration with SLS State Centres to assess and improve PRE at high-risk coastal sites, including at unpatrolled beaches and rock platforms. The project addresses the absence of national guidelines and limited evidence on the effectiveness of existing PRE installations for coastal locations. Phase one audited current equipment and emergency communications across all seven SLS States and now external

stakeholders, identifying gaps in functionality, placement, and maintenance.

Findings from this phase will inform the development of nationally consistent guidelines to support the installation, monitoring, and use of PRE, aiming to enhance safety, reduce drowning risk, and ensure sustainable, coordinated management to reduce drowning and injury across Australia.

RIPEYE

Rip currents are the leading coastal hazard in Australia, responsible for more deaths each year than floods, cyclones, bushfires, and shark attacks combined. The RipEye Project, led by Associate Professor Mitch Harley (UNSW Water Research Laboratory) in partnership with SLSA, is developing a smartphone-based rip current detection tool using machine learning and AI.

This innovative approach aims to improve rip current identification and awareness, particularly among highrisk groups such as young males, culturally and linguistic marginalised (CALM) communities, and visitors from regional and remote areas.

Recent project milestones include collaborative workshops where the project team refined objectives, annotated thousands of crowd-sourced images, and tested preliminary algorithms with promising detection accuracy above 85%.

The RipEye tool is being designed for practical use by surf lifesavers, with plans to gamify the experience to enhance engagement and training for the community. The research outcomes of this project will support SLSA’s goal to achieve the Australian Water Safety Council’s commitment to reduce coastal drowning deaths by 50% by 2030.

MENTAL HEALTH FRAMEWORK

SLSA research has shown that lifesaving personnel face unique mental health challenges due to frequent exposure to potentially traumatic events, including major rescues, drowning deaths, suicides, shark bites and other traumatic injuries. In partnership with leading universities, SLSA is conducting the first dedicated research into the mental health of Australian lifeguards and surf lifesavers to better understand and support their wellbeing.

Stigma, particularly shame, was shown to amplify stress after trauma, with our adolescent members especially vulnerable. However, social support within SLS from members or leaders was shown to offer protective benefits against stress and opportunities for personal growth. A recent national workshop initiated the development of a framework to guide consistent, best-practice mental health support across Australia and New Zealand, aiming to improve resilience and wellbeing for lifesaving personnel.

NATIONAL COASTAL VISITATION PROJECT

To improve understanding of coastal visitation and risk SLSA is exploring the use of People Movement Data (PMD) to address current data gaps and enhance SLSA’s capacity to deliver evidence-informed practices. PMD is GPS-based location

data collected via mobile devices or other applications as people move throughout their day. This data will be particularly valuable for unpatrolled coastal areas and smaller jurisdictions where traditional visitation data is limited. PMD will enable more accurate coastal risk assessments and support strategic decisions aligned with the 2030 Strategic Plan, especially those focused on ‘beyond the flags.’ Future applications include supporting the placement of future Public Rescue Equipment (PRE), delivering flexible patrolling agendas, and enhancing resource allocation to support service delivery.

APPLIED SCIENCE

THE DISASTER RESILIENCE PROJECT

SLSCs across Australia are highly exposed to the changing effects of climate and natural hazards including bushfire, flooding, tropical cyclones, and erosion. SLSA’s Disaster Resilience Project was developed to respond to these urgent challenges and position SLSA as a leader in coastal adaptation and community resilience. By acting early, SLSA can move to secure critical resources, build internal capability, and strengthen its role in national emergency response.

Funded in 2022, this project engaged ResilientCo and Meridian Urban to assess hazard exposure across all 315 clubs, with detailed site assessments conducted at 50 clubs with different disaster risk profiles around the country. These club visits captured local experiences and vulnerabilities, informing the development of a national resilience assessment tool. This process culminated in a suite of recommendations and potential future projects at club, state, and national levels, aimed at improving resilience to natural hazards and climate change. The project has provided SLS with a deeper understanding of natural hazard risks and vulnerabilities facing our clubs, members, and the services that they deliver, establishing a baseline for future impact measurements and guiding strategic decisions about future service and resource capacity for the organisation.

MARINE STINGERS

SLSA, in partnership with UNSW Sydney, the University of Hawaii, James Cook University, and SLS State Centres, undertook two major projects to reduce the risks posed by marine stingers along Australia’s coastlines. With over 374,000 stings treated by ALS and SLS services since 2013, these projects play a key role in improving public safety and promoting best-practice protocols to safeguard beachgoers. BluebottleWatch is a multidisciplinary project developing a predictive tool to inform beachgoers of bluebottle presence at beaches along the east coast of Australia. Through ocean surveys, lab research, and machine learning, the team has identified seasonal peaks of bluebottle stings and presence, and have mapped bluebottle movements driven by wind and currents. Genetic analysis also revealed at least two distinct species in Australian waters. The project is now entering its final phase, focusing on refining the predictive model to support lifesaving operations and public awareness by making a bluebottle risk rating on BeachSafe.

The Australian Box Jellyfish First Aid Research Project investigated treatment methods for stings from Chironex fleckeri (Australian Box Jellyfish), one of the world’s most venomous marine species. Preliminary trials in Darwin assessed the effectiveness of vinegar, heat-based treatments, and other first aid responses. Future research is planned to clarify optimal sting management practices, safeguarding beachgoers and patrolling members in high-risk areas, ultimately working towards the national aim of zero preventable deaths in Australian waters.

LIFESAVING CPR

Lifesaving CPR was a pilot project developed by SLSA to improve the quality and delivery of CPR among volunteer surf lifesavers. As a leading community first responder organisation with a broad membership base, SLSA identified CPR quality improvement as a key opportunity to improve patient outcomes and ultimately save more lives. Over 12 months, SLSA research worked with the Medical Advisory Group and project team to design and evaluate a tailored training program that was inspired by the Resuscitation Academy’s High-Performance CPR model and aligned with the SLSA CPR education syllabus. The pilot program focused on enhancing teamwork, refining CPR delivery, and strengthening technical skills. Participants who completed the program demonstrated clear improvements in CPR performance, particularly in coordination and technique, highlighting the value of targeted education and emphasising the importance of evaluating practical training programs to ensure they achieve their intended outcomes. These results prompted broad adoption of Lifesaving CPR across Surf Life Saving, with all SLS states and territories incorporating the updated techniques into their 2025/26 season Skills Maintenance programs and into new courses. SLSA training resources for CPR have been updated for Lifesaving CPR, including the Public Safety Aquatic Rescue Training Manual, the Bronze Medallion and Surf Rescue Certificate CPR assessment tasks and online learning. The success of this initiative suggests that similar quality improvement approaches could benefit other CPR providers and community organisations.

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS, INTEGRITY & PROJECTS

Strong and collaborative relationships with all levels of government remain central to SLSA’s ability to deliver critical services, strengthen community safety, and grow our movement. In 2024/25, SLSA continued to engage closely with elected representatives and key government agencies to ensure the needs of our members and the broader community are supported.

Through ongoing advocacy, strategic partnerships, and meaningful dialogue, we secured vital funding, elevated national awareness of coastal safety through our new National Water Safety Campaign, and progressed initiatives that reflected the values and priorities of our organisation.

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

SLSA acknowledges and thanks the Parliamentary Friends of Surf Life Saving of the 47th Parliament, co-chaired by the Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Member for Kingsford Smith, and the Hon. Angie Bell MP, Member for Moncrieff. We are fortunate to have continued bipartisan support through this Friendship Group, which is vital to the success of our programs and advocacy. In August and December 2024, we welcomed the opportunity to host two significant events in Canberra, the release of the National Drowning Report with Royal Life Saving Australia, and the launch of our National Water Safety Campaign for summer. Both events helped highlight the importance of coastal safety on a national stage.

We are especially grateful to the Australian Government for its ongoing investment in water safety through the Water

and Snow Safety Program, which also funds our Black Spot Funding and the Beach Safety Equipment Fund. These funding streams are crucial in helping us deliver lifesaving services across the country. SLSA acknowledges the support of the Prime Minister, the Hon. Anthony Albanese MP, and Minister for Sport, the Hon. Anika Wells MP for their continued support of this vital funding which supports our core operations.

We also acknowledge the increased participation funding provided by the Australian Sports Commission (ASC), which has supported our efforts to grow membership, drive participation and engage more diverse communities across our movement. In New South Wales, we thank the NSW Government for its continued support of the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter (Southern Region), and for helping us amplify our summer National Water Safety Campaign across the state through targeted media coverage.

INTEGRITY

In 2024/25, the Integrity Team conducted a comprehensive review of the governance charter of the SLSA Board in conjunction with the annual ASC Governance Standards. SLSA is pleased to report that for the fifth consecutive year, SLSA’s ranking as a top Tier 1 sport has consistently surpassed the average, placing it among the highest of all National Sporting Organisations. Child safety continued to be a top priority for SLSA, which submitted its annual declaration of compliance to the ASC in December.

The Annual Policy Review was uneventful, with only a few procedures undergoing minor amendments. However, a significant review of the SLS Integrity Policies will commence in the upcoming financial year.

SPECIAL PROJECTS

RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN (RAP) WORKING GROUP

SLSA has embarked on the development of a Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) as a positive and meaningful step towards reconciliation. In late 2024, we formed our inaugural RAP Working Group through an expression of interest process. The group is comprised of 15 members, including five SLSA staff, two SLSA Board members, two cochairs, and six working group members. This diverse and passionate group brings together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, SLSA members and nonmembers, and individuals from across Australia. Their perspectives are helping guide this work with authenticity and accountability.

The RAP Working Group held its first meeting in March 2025 and has met monthly since. The group is focused on developing a Reflect RAP, designed to build our capacity and understanding around reconciliation. In establishing a Reflect RAP, SLSA commits to developing relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders, upholding respect for, and value, of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and traditions, and providing greater opportunities to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members. This work closely aligns with our strategic priority to ensure there is a place for everyone in Surf Life Saving.

2030 STRATEGIC PLAN

In 2024/25, SLSA progressed the development of its 2030 Strategic Plan, building on work initiated in early 2024. A dedicated Working Group of Board and Executive Management Group members was formed to guide the process and incorporate perspectives from across the organisation, including Advisory Committees, volunteers, and SLSA Managers.

Throughout July and August, a series of interactive State Town Hall Sessions were held, led by President John Baker AM ESM and CEO Adam Weir. More than 115 members from across the country participated, providing feedback that directly shaped the plan. Following this engagement, the SLSA Board officially adopted the Strategic Plan in November 2024 and shared it with stakeholders and partners in early 2025.

Our 2030 Strategic Plan focuses on four strategic priorities; making it easier to be a lifesaver, ensuring there is a place for everyone in Surf Life Saving, making our movement more sustainable, and actively leveraging the strength of the Surf Life Saving brand to make us Australia’s preferred cause. The Strategic Plan will be launched on 1 July 2025.

PRIORITIES

MAKING IT EASIER TO BE A LIFE SAVER.

THERE’S A PLACE FOR EVERYONE IN SURF LIFE SAVING.

ACTIVELY LEVERAGE THE STRENGTH OF THE SLS BRAND TO MAKE US AUSTRALIA’S PREFERRED CAUSE. MAKE OUR MOVEMENT MORE SUSTAINABLE.

ENABLING SHIFTS THAT MUST HAPPEN

FROM

A collection of 7 highly successful individual states and territory (NT), and 316 Clubs. TO

A united and highl y inf luential and successful National movement driven by the pursuit of a common purpose.

FROM

Islands of data are eroding the potential worth of our collective data. TO

A single source of truth, easily accessible, widely used and valued by all.

FROM

Good intentions about youth engagement. TO

A movement that celebrates our youth as the future of Surf Life Saving. We will recruit, train and retain our youth and ensure they are represented at all levels of our organisation.

FROM

A culture that can sometimes feel closed o to non-members. TO

A movement that celebrates equity, diversity, inclusiveness and a changing community.

FROM

Delivering contracted outcomes for those that fund us. TO

Having the funding streams and resources that give us the freedom to determine our own future.

FROM

A movement where standards may vary just because people are volunteers. TO

A movement proud of the standards we are all accountable to and for.

HUMAN RESOURCES

SLSA employees work across many different areas of the business. We all do different roles but all work for the same purpose, mission, and vision set by SLSA. We have staff who work across three office locations - Bondi, Brisbane and Cape Banks. With the introduction of flexible working practices, we also allow some employees to work remotely.

2024/25 saw some great staff training conducted. We all did our annual harassment and bullying training. This is something that the organisation takes seriously and ensures everyone is aware of the policies and procedures for reporting. We also conducted first aid training, fire warden training, policy training, and offered cultural awareness training.

SLSA also implemented a range of internal staff facing policies for 1 July 2024. These policies were amended off the back of an audit we did with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC), the audits focus was on Gender Equity within the organisation

REMUNERATION

In the 2024/25 financial year, SLSA has continued to uphold its commitment to fair and competitive remuneration practices aligned with the not-for-profit sector. Our remuneration packages include fringe benefits that, within Australian Taxation Office guidelines, allow us to provide a portion of an employee’s income as a tax-exempt fringe benefit. Whilst wage increases have been modest due to our inability to compete with the corporate sector, we have been able to offer our employees increased flexibility and supportive arrangements.

PERFORMANCE REVIEWS AND INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT PLANS

SLSA staff participated in the formal annual performance review process. This financial year we decided to move away from biannual and move to annual performance reviews. All managers and employees were consulted with before we moved to annual performance reviews. New scoring measures were implemented to ensure accurate scores are given for employee’s performance.

It is encouraged to have regular check-ins with the employee’s respective manager throughout the 12-month process. A midyear check-in phase was also implemented to check on the status of the employee’s goals and to ascertain if they required any additional support.

Each employee’s performance review is still in line with the SLSA business plan. As part of the reviews, employees and managers jointly identify personal and professional growth opportunities.

It is encouraged to identify any professional development that an individual would like to undertake. These are encouraged to be placed in the employee’s performance review. Managers are encouraged to support their employee’s professional development. This commitment to performance reviews and individual development plans reflects our dedication to fostering a skilled and motivated workforce, ensuring that our employees are equipped to achieve both personal and organisational success.

WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY

SLSA continue to promote a healthy safe work environment for all staff. SLSA have created a Work Health and Safety Management System (WHSMS) which is due to be implemented in the upcoming financial year. This system is designed to enhance our workplace safety by systematically managing health and safety risks. It aligns with the latest standards and regulations to ensure the well-being of all employees.

The WHSMS is a comprehensive framework that integrates our policies, procedures, and practices to manage health and safety risks effectively. It covers all aspects of workplace safety, including:

• Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating potential hazards.

• Emergency Preparedness: Ensuring readiness for any emergency situations.

• Training and Awareness: Providing ongoing training to all employees.

• Incident Reporting: Streamlining the process for reporting and addressing hazards and incidents.

• Compliance: Adhering to relevant health and safety legislation.

Along with the WHSMS, we are also in the process of implementing a WHS Committee. The committee will meet quarterly. The committee will do the following:

• Review incidents, hazards, and risk controls.

• Conduct quarterly inspections of our office spaces.

• Drive improvements in line with our Work Health and Safety Management System.

STAFF TURNOVER AND STATISTICS

Turnover for all staff, including casuals, during 2024/25 was 12.95%. This is a decrease from 23.7% in the previous financial year. SLSA has several key metrics within the annual business plan focused on increasing employee satisfaction rates and developing and implementing retention strategies. The average tenure of all current employees is four years and eight months.

The following figures represent staff employed by SLSA at 30 June 2025 and the turnover rate for 2024/25.

Michelle Bainbridge Head of Shared Services

SLSA ORGANISATIONAL CHART

FINANCE & SYSTEMS

FINANCE & SYSTEMS

FINANCE AND RISK

The finance team is responsible for the day-to-day management of the organisation’s finances including income, expense, asset management, cash flow, and payroll. Annual budgets, medium-term forward estimates, and reforecasts are prepared for each entity in the group. Ongoing analysis of the group’s financial performance is conducted to ensure funds are used efficiently, and to aid in strategic decision making. The procurement function includes acquisition of prize homes, procurement support to cost-centre managers, management of tender processes, and supplier negotiations. The management of the SLSA web store also falls within the finance team including order processing, inventory management, patrol uniform rollouts, and club support. The team is also responsible for the general administration of SLSA’s offices, insurances, organisational risk and compliance, and management of the Surf Life Saving Rescue Fund. The organisation fulfilled all its obligations to relevant regulatory bodies including the ACNC, and the Australia Taxation Office. We completed acquittal reports for funding provided by government departments, and prepared annual financial statements for each entity in the group and the consolidated entity which were audited with an unmodified audit opinion. We also prepared financial reports for lotteries and managed the audit process for each lottery. Working with the lottery team, we acquired and processed the transactions for six prize homes during the year. Investors in the SLS Rescue Fund were provided monthly performance reports and statements; deposits into and withdrawals from the fund were processed. We conducted a tender for the supply of our patrol uniforms and apparel. Cost centre managers were provided monthly expense statements including analysis of variances and support was provided to assist in keeping program spend to budget.

The department is accountable to the SLSA Board through the Finance, Audit, Risk & Compliance Committee (FARCC). A suite of reports is presented to the FARCC at monthly meetings including consolidated management accounts, risk and compliance registers, and human resource metrics.

NATIONAL ICT UNIT (NICTU)

The NICTU has continued progress on stage 2 of modernising the Core Systems of SLSA with the rewrite of the Members Area nearing completion with the new version, now called SLS Hub, expected to be released early in the 2025/26 season. The new Hub will feature modern, mobile-friendly interface, with seamless navigation and integration across key services and devices. This release will then be followed by incremental updates to SurfGuard to the new platform which uses a modern technology architecture. Stage 3 will not be as visible to the members but will see the migration of data to resilient cloud infrastructure securing the organisation’s data security and availability well into the future.

In October 2024 we launched the new purpose-built CRM for the SLS Foundation that provides greater functionality to support the fundraising efforts of the community fundraising team. This was a large, multi-year project that involved the input of many different staff across the organisation. During the year we also completed a project to identify suitable Incident Management Systems as a replacement for SurfCom and the Patrol Operations App. This project involved engaging with all State lifesaving teams in order to gather requirements of the system. Potential systems were ranked using these requirements and a recommended system identified.

James Cameron Head of Finance and Systems

GOVERNANCE & OVERSIGHT

GOVERNANCE & OVERSIGHT

OVERVIEW

Since 1907, when a small number of Sydney surf life saving clubs (SLSCs) formed the organisation now known as SLSA, we have evolved into a highly federated and geographically dispersed organisation, made up of 500 entities/groups including 316 separately incorporated surf life saving clubs (SLSC), 17 regional Branches (in NSW and Queensland), 79 Support Operations (regional rescue and response teams), three VMRS, 74 paid Lifeguard services and seven State and Territory Centres.

These various, separate, legal entities are not subsidiaries of SLSA and have a variety of legal and reporting structures; therefore, their financial results are not consolidated here.

SLSA is the peak policy and decision-making body for the Surf Life Saving movement. Under our Constitution, our members are:

• State and Territory Centres, represented by their appointed directors have the right to be present, debate and vote at our general meetings.

• Affiliated SLSCs, which shall be represented by an individual nominated from time to time in writing by the club to the relevant State Centre. The nominee shall have the right to be present and to debate on behalf of the Affiliated SLSC at General Meetings but shall have no voting rights.

• Life Members of SLSA, have the right to be present and to debate at general meetings, but with no voting rights.

• All individual members of affiliated SLSCs, who have the right to be present at general meetings, but with no voting or debating rights.

Each year, prior to the commencement of the season, individual members sign an application for joint membership of SLSA, their State Centre and their club. Where the members are less than 18 years of age, the membership form is signed by a parent or legal guardian. This detailed membership form sets out a number of legal requirements, including indemnification of SLSA if a claim arises from a surf lifesaving activity, as well as outlining a member’s individual liability in the unlikely event of SLSA winding up.

SLSA also operates one subsidiary company to provide rescue helicopter services in NSW. Other rescue helicopter services operate in Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia through their respective State Centres. The SLS Foundation, which is also a wholly owned subsidiary, undertakes a national fundraising role on behalf of the

movement. Surf Sports Australia Pty Ltd which is also a wholly owned subsidiary, undertakes and provides surf sports events and activities for SLSA.

PATRONS OF SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTRALIA

Chief Patrons

His Royal Highness King Charles III KG, KT, GCB, OM, AK, QSO, CC, PC, ADC King of the United Kingdom

Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia

Patrons

Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC, KC Governor of New South Wales and Mr Dennis Wilson

Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM Governor of Queensland

Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC Governor of South Australia

His Excellency, The Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM Governor of Western Australia

Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC Governor of Tasmania

His Honour Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie PSM Administrator of the Northern Territory

Vice Patron

The Honourable Anthony Albanese MP Prime Minister of Australia

Life Governor

Alan Whelpton AO GKN

GOVERNANCE REPORTING – AUSTRALIAN SPORTS COMMISSION

In accordance with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) Governance Standard 6.5., the highest level of governance maturity mandates that National Sports Organisations (NSOs) annually report on their governance activities to members, providing an overview of their performance for the year.

Overall, SLSA has once again demonstrated strong performance in the Sport Governance Standards, ranking among the highest scoring Tier 1 NSO’s.

The graphs below illustrate our performance for 2025, which assesses our compliance against 9 principles and 35 standards out of a possible 4. The average score (top left graph) indicates SLSA’s score of 3.54 out of 4, while representing a slight decrease from last year’s performance, this decline can be attributed to the timing of the assessment, with the Board working on the implementation of the 2030 strategic plan, and the release of new organisational values. The strategic plan and values were not due for release until 1 July, however this report was done in June 2025.

Following our scores, we have developed our Governance Plan in line with requirements from the ASC. SLSA has committed to continual improvement and has determined the five priority focus areas through to June 2026 are:

• Governance Education

• Governance Reporting

• Development of Risk Management

• Board evaluation

• Succession Planning SLSA will report

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTRALIA BOARD

OVERVIEW

As one of the largest volunteer organisations in Australia, we depend on the contribution of our volunteer members for everything from patrolling beaches, to providing input for the strategic direction for the organisation. Board and committee members freely give up their time for the benefit of Surf Life Saving.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTRALIA BOARD

The peak policy and decision body for SLSA is made up of the President of SLSA, seven appointed directors from each State and the Northern Territory, four independent directors and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SLSA. The board delegates the management of SLSA to the CEO who seeks support and advice from the Executive Management Group (EMG).

NAME POSITION

John Baker AM ESM SLSA President (Chair)

Peter Agnew AM ESM SLSNSW President Appointed Director

Gerard O’Brien SLSQ President Appointed Director

Paul James ASM LSV President Appointed Director until November 2024

Susan Wolff LSV President Appointed Director from November 2024

Heidi Gan SLSWA President Appointed Director

Sarah Cutbush SLSSA President Appointed Director

Stuart Paine SLST President Appointed Director

Adam Traugott SLSNT President Appointed Director

Toni Bache Independent Director

Darrin Bragg Independent Director

Jennifer Cook Independent Director

Jules Scarlett Independent Director

Adam Weir Chief Executive Officer

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTRALIA ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

SLSA’S KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE:

a. The global relationship with ILS. Coordination of activities in the Asia Pacific region. Tracking international activities undertaken by SLS movement.

b. Relations with allied agencies (AUSTSWIM, RLSSA, Swimming Australia, Australian Coastal Alliance, etc.) And other peak organisations (e.g., Australian Water Safety Council, National sea change Taskforce, etc.).

c. The relationship, management and delivery of all representation to Federal government.

d. The facilitation, coordination and delivery of agreed national administrative programs in insurance.

e. The facilitation, coordination and delivery of agreed national administrative programs in Information Technology and Communications (ITC).

f. The facilitation, coordination and delivery of agreed national administrative framework in disciplinary and grievance.

g. Coordinating the development of a safety framework and guidelines to ensure the protection and benefit of our members.

h. The facilitation, coordination and development of a national lifesaving, sport and education/leadership development framework and facilitation of National Committees.

i. The coordination of the development of member training and education through curriculum and resource development with and through the State Centres.

j. All national sporting events and delivery of the national high performance programs with and through the states.

k. Coordinating relevant research to foster innovation and achieve our vision.

l. Developing the national member development programs (such as leadership, recognition and history) and aligning with the states through the creation of national resources to support these programs.

m. SLSA brand protection, reputation and development.

n. The management and delivery of national marketing, sponsorship and business development programs.

o. The management and delivery of national fundraising in accordance with agreed national and state business outcomes.

p. Facilitating communication between State Centres.

SLSA President (Chair)

John was appointed as a Director on the SLSA Board in January 2012 and served as the Deputy President of SLSA for five years until he was elected as President of SLSA in 2021. John served as President of Surf Life Saving South Australia for 10 years and he has been a member of the Brighton SLSC in SA since 1977. He is a former State Director of Lifesaving and is a current Senior Aircrewman with the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter. John is a Life Member at club and state levels, and inducted in the Surf Life Saving SA Hall of Fame. John brings a wealth of experience with him to SLSA as a Partner/ Company Director with KWP Communications Group and his experience on the boards of the Advertising Council Australia (SA), Australian Red Cross (SA), the Virtual War Memorial Australia and the Smith Family.

SLSNSW President Appointed Director

Peter joined the SLSA Board in May 2023 following his election as President of Surf Life Saving NSW. A member of North Bondi SLSC for over 40 years, he previously served as President of SLS Sydney and has a deep experience across each functional area of surf lifesaving locally and internationally. Professionally, Peter is Director of People Development Australia and a consultant with the Australian Institute of Management in the MBA and Director programs. He has three Master’s degrees in Business (MBA), Education (MEd Adult), and Leadership Counselling (MCounsPsych). Peter is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has been an active Board member for over 20 years.

GERARD O’BRIEN

SLSQ President Appointed Director

Gerard joined the SLSA Board in September 2022 following his election as President of Surf Life Saving Queensland. A member of Noosa Heads SLSC since 2001, he is a Life Member and active patrolling member who has held roles across club, branch and state levels. Gerard has more than 30 years of executive leadership experience, including CEO and General Manager roles in Australia and overseas, and 10 years leading an ASX-listed public company.

JOHN BAKER AM ESM

PETER AGNEW AM ESM

PAUL JAMES ASM

LSV President Appointed Director until November 2024

Paul, an area manager in Gippsland for Ambulance Victoria (AV), is responsible for the provision of quality emergency ambulance operations. Paul is a registered Ambulance Paramedic and has received an Ambulance Service Medal and National Emergency Medal. Paul has been actively involved in lifesaving for more than 40 years and is still a patrolling member and life member at Hampton LSC. He has been the Hampton LSC Club President on two occasions and currently is a Director of SLSA and a member of the SLSA Foundation. Paul was awarded an RLSSA 125th Anniversary Certificate of Merit by HRH Prince Michael of Kent in recognition of his contributions to lifesaving.

SARAH CUTBUSH FAICD

SLSSA President Appointed Director

Sarah joined the SLSA Board in May 2023 following her election as President of Surf Life Saving South Australia. A member of Somerton SLSC since 2012, she is a patrol vice-captain and actively contributes to club operations. Sarah has more than 35 years of leadership experience and is CEO of the Leaders Institute of South Australia, delivering governance and leadership programs including the Governor’s Leadership Foundation Program and a fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

LSV President Appointed Director from November 2024

Susan joined the SLSA Board in November 2024 following her election as President of Life Saving Victoria. A long-standing member of Altona Life Saving Club, she has held leadership positions including Treasurer and committee member. Professionally, Susan is Executive Director and Company Secretary of Philanthropy Australia and an Independent Director of Stawell Gift Event Management. She is a Fellow of the Governance Institute and CPA Australia, contributing governance and financial expertise to the Board.

HEIDI GAN

SLSWA President Appointed Director

Heidi joined the SLSA Board in September 2023 after being elected President of Surf Life Saving Western Australia. A member of City of Perth SLSC, she is an experienced patrolling surf lifesaver and a dual Olympian. Professionally, Heidi is a Principal in BHP’s Global Business Development team and previously held senior legal and company secretary roles at Lynas Rare Earths. She brings governance, legal and leadership expertise, along with broad community and sport engagement.

STUART PAINE

SLST President Appointed Director

Stuart joined the SLSA Board in October 2021 after being elected President of Surf Life Saving Tasmania. A member of Burnie SLSC since 1981, he is an active Life Member and has held multiple leadership positions at club and state levels. Professionally, Stuart is a Business Development Manager focusing on Vic/Tas/SA with experience in finance, compliance, human resources and management. He provides operational, governance and leadership expertise to Surf Life Saving nationally.

ADAM TRAUGOTT

SLSNT President Appointed Director

Adam joined the SLSA Board in May 2023 after being elected President of Surf Life Saving Northern Territory. He has served on the SLSNT Board since 2015 and has been an active member since 2001, holding leadership roles across lifesaving, education, sport, finance and administration. Professionally, Adam served in the Royal Australian Navy for over 15 years and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

TONI BACHE

Independent Director

Toni joined the SLSA Board as an Independent Director in August 2019 and serves as Chair of the SLSA Nominations Committee. She has been actively involved in Surf Life Saving for over 25 years with Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park SLSC, where she continues to patrol and has held multiple leadership roles. A former Fortune 500 Vice President, Toni holds a MBA and brings more than two decades of global leadership experience across business strategy, marketing, and human resources. She is now Co-Founder and Director of a strategy and marketing firm, scaling leading online education companies.

JULES SCARLETT

Independent Director

Jules joined the SLSA Board as an Independent Director in November 2023. She is an active member of Raspins Beach SLSC, where she is an Age Manager for its Nippers program. She also delivers the Beach to Bush program across Tasmanian schools. Professionally, Jules has over 30 years of commercial and board experience across legal and senior ASX20 roles, including leadership of Telstra’s wholesale infrastructure business. She is a Director of NBN Co Ltd and TasPorts and serves as Chair and Commissioner of Legal Aid Tasmania.

DARRIN BRAGG

Independent Director

Darrin joined the SLSA Board as an Independent Director in August 2019 and is chair of the Surf Life Saving Foundation Board and SLSA Finance, Audit, Risk & Compliance Committee. He has been part of the Surf Life Saving movement for more than 40 years and is currently a member and life member of Townsville Picnic Bay SLSC. Darrin is a Life Member of both SLSQ and the North Barrier Branch. He is a qualified accountant with extensive financial management and governance experience, having previously held President, Treasurer and Club Captain roles at Mackay and Townsville Picnic Bay SLSCs.

JENNIFER COOK

Independent Director

Jennifer joined the SLSA Board as an Independent Director in November 2022. She contributes to SLSA through the Finance, Audit, Risk and Compliance and Nominations Committees and spends weekends patrolling at Coogee SLSC. Jennifer has a commercial real estate advisory business with extensive national and international business experience. She serves as an Independent NonExecutive Director of ASX200 Centuria Industrial REIT, sits on the AICD NSW Division Council, and brings strategy, governance and brand expertise to the Board. She has a Bachelor of Business, an MBA and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

SLSA BOARD GOVERNANCE CHARTER

The SLSA Board has a Board Governance Charter that was updated in May 2025. Key aspects of the charter are detailed below.

STATUTORY OBLIGATIONS AND OVERSIGHT

SLSA is:

• a charity registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission (ACNC) under the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission Act 2012 (Cth); and

• a registered charitable institution under the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 (NSW); and

• a company limited by guarantee under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

SLSA has three wholly owned subsidiaries.

• The Surf Life Saving Foundation is also a charity registered with the ACNC and a company limited by guarantee. It also operates under the charitable fundraising legislation in each of the states and territories where it is registered.

• Southern Region SLSA Helicopter Rescue Service Pty Ltd is also a charity registered with the ACNC, a registered charitable institution under the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 (NSW) and is a proprietary limited company under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

• Surf Sports Australia Pty Ltd is a proprietary limited company under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

THE ROLE OF THE BOARD AND COMMITTEES

SLSA’s Board and Committee structure is critical to ensuring volunteer representation in key decisions. The various committees outlined in this section are advisory only. They can however be empowered by the Board and meet as required. Their recommendations are considered by either the CEO, the Executive Management Group or in some instances the Board. The Board, through the CEO, has ultimate supervision of the committees.

THE ROLE OF THE DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT

The day-to-day business of SLSA is managed by the CEO, under the direction of the Board. The Board may exercise all the powers of the company, except for any power the Corporations Act or the Constitution requires the company to exercise in a general meeting of members.

The Board is responsible for the appointment of a CEO to manage and administer the organisation. The CEO is ultimately accountable to the Board; however, the CEO is accountable to the President (as Chair of the Board) on a dayto-day basis.

BOARD COMPOSITION

The Board is comprised of the President, seven State Centre appointed Directors, one from each State and the Northern Territory, and up to four additional Independent Directors who may also be appointed to the Board.

BOARD MEETINGS AND ACCESS TO MANAGEMENT

The Board meets at least five times each year. The appointed Directors are selected and appointed by their respective State or Territory Centres.

MANAGEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT BUSINESS RISKS

SLSA is committed to the formal, systematic and structured proactive management of risks across the organisation. The Board conducts an annual risk management workshop where it sets or reviews the Risk Management Policy and confirms its Risk Appetite Statements. Risks are managed on an ongoing basis in accordance with SLSA’s Risk Management Framework. The Risk Management Committee meet monthly to review the risk register and update mitigation strategies and perceived level of risk as appropriate. New risks are added to the register through a formal notification process from staff, management and directors to the Head of Finance & Systems. A risk reporting scorecard along with a “Top Ten” list of major risks (as agreed by the Board) is discussed as a standing agenda item at the monthly Finance, Audit, Risk & Compliance Committee (FARCC) meeting, together with any significant new or emerging risks.

CODE OF CONDUCT

The code of conduct for Directors, setting out expectations and limitations, is contained within the SLSA Board Governance Charter and Directors annually sign this document.

ACCOUNTABILITY

The Board is accountable to the members of SLSA. The Constitution lists the following categories of membership:

• State Centres – debating and voting rights at SLSA general meetings.

• Affiliated Clubs – debating but not voting rights at SLSA general meetings.

• Life Members – debating but not voting rights at SLSA general meetings.

All members of Affiliated Clubs – can be present, but have no debating or voting rights at SLSA general meetings. The individual membership category is divided into various other sub-categories set out in the Regulations.

INDEPENDENCE

At the commencement of each board meeting, the Chair asks for Directors to declare conflicts of interest in any agenda items. Under the Board’s structure, seven Directors are appointed by their respective State Centre. The Chair ensures that all State-appointed Directors fulfil their fiduciary duties to SLSA.

ETHICAL STANDARDS

The Board acknowledges the need for, and continued maintenance of, the highest standards of corporate governance practice, ethical conduct by all Directors and open and transparent processes. Declaring any conflict of interest and/or pecuniary interest in agenda items of board meetings ensures that, where appropriate, Directors leave the meeting until discussion on the matter is concluded.

COMPLIANCE ISSUES

SLSA is a registered charity under the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 (Cth), a registered charitable institution under the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 (NSW) and a company limited by guarantee under the Corporations Act 2001. The advisors noted earlier, Legal Counsel Ian Fullagar, BDO and Marsh Advantage Australia Pty Ltd also ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulation.

OBTAINING INDEPENDENT ADVICE

The Board is assisted in aspects of its operations with external advice. Ian Fullagar continues to provide legal services. Our auditors, BDO conduct an annual internal audit, giving the Board independent assurance and advice on financial management matters. Marsh Advantage Australia Pty Ltd continues to provide insurance advice and services.

COMPENSATION

Directors receive no compensation for their services. Travel and accommodation costs associated with meetings are met by SLSA.

TRAINING

At times, presentations by outside experts on strategic matters are made to the Board. Directors have also been given the opportunity to attend workshops and other conferences relating to corporate governance at SLSA’s expense.

SUBSIDIARY ENTITIES

As noted elsewhere, SLSA wholly owns a number of subsidiary bodies. The SLS Foundation raises funds nationally and in each state for Surf Life Saving. Southern Region SLSA Helicopter Rescue Services P/L provided helicopter rescue services in NSW. Surf Sports Australia P/L is another subsidiary of SLSA, primarily concerned with professional sports events. The financial results of these three subsidiaries are included in SLSA’s accounts.

FIDUCIARY DUTIES

Monthly financial statements for SLSA and subsidiary companies are provided to the FARCC. These monthly statements together with monthly accounts, are submitted to Directors for endorsement at the subsequent board meeting. All financial accounts and reports are overseen by the FARCC and, on its recommendation, adopted or otherwise by the board throughout the year. The FARCC also oversees risk management, compliance and governance, including HR reporting.

PATHWAYS TO BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP

As one of the largest volunteer organisations in Australia, SLSA is dependent on the contribution of its volunteer members for everything from patrolling beaches, to providing the overall management and operational delivery of frontline services and activities. Broadly speaking a person can become a member of the Board or a committee by being appointed by either SLSA or by a State Centre. The skills base required for these positions is set out in the SLSA Board Governance Charter and in the SLSA Regulations. SLSA provides multiple avenues and pathways to leadership roles within SLS including the Women’s Mentoring Program, National Leadership College and Masterclass.

GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE OF SLSA

BOARDS & COMMITTEES

1. EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT GROUP

This is the management authority approved by the SLSA Board and is made up of the SLSA CEO, State CEOs with advice from SLSA Leadership Team and SLSA’s Legal Counsel.

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT GROUP

Adam Weir Chair, CEO, SLSA

Steven Pearce AFSM CEO, SLSNSW

Dave Whimpey CEO, SLSQ

Catherine Greaves CEO, LSV

James O’Toole CEO, SLSWA

Damien Marangon CEO, SLSSA

Tony van den Enden CEO, SLST

Andrew McGuiness CEO, SLSNT

2. GOVERNANCE COMMITTEES

APPOINTMENTS & REMUNERATION COMMITTEE

Recommends the appointment of the CEO to the SLSA Board, reviews and reports proposed remuneration packages for the CEO and senior executives to the SLSA Board and ensures adequate human resource levels within the organisation.

APPOINTMENTS AND REMUNERATION COMMITTEE

John Baker AM ESM President, SLSA

Darrin Bragg Independent SLSA Director & Chair of FARCC

FINANCE, AUDIT, RISK & COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE

Assists the SLSA Board in the oversight of the reliability and integrity of accounting policies, financial reporting, and disclosure practices.

FINANCE, AUDIT, RISK & COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE

Darrin Bragg Chair, Independent SLSA Director

Jennifer Cook Independent SLSA Director

Stephen Bennett Independent Member

Warrick Ranson Independent Member

Vincent Sheehan Independent Member

NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE

Assists the SLSA Board in reviewing suitable candidates for President, Director, Board Appointed Committees and other committees as request by the Board.

NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE

Toni Bache Chair, Independent SLSA Director

Jennifer Cook Independent SLSA Director

Adam Luscombe Independent Member

Dylan Bull Independent Member

Graham McLean Independent Member

ICT GOVERNANCE GROUP

Makes recommendations to the Board on IT&T strategy, architecture, standards, and policy with Surf Life Saving.

ICT GOVERNANCE GROUP

Adam Weir Chair, CEO, SLSA

James Cameron Head of Finance and Systems, SLSA

Peter Agnew AM ESM SLSA Board Member NSW

Sarah Cutbush

SLSA Board Member SA until May 2025

Catherine Greaves EMG Member LSV

Dave Whimpey EMG Member QLD

Simon Smith SLS Club Member

Elissa Farrow

Michael Ewald

SLS Club Member

Independent ICT Business Strategist

3. EDUCATION

EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE:

To represent the views of SLS members at a national level, significant to matters relating to education to drive consistent outcomes nationally that benefit every member, club, and state. The scope of this committee includes education across all portfolios of the organisation.

EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Tracey Hare-Boyd Chair of Education

Ingrid Cobiac Deputy Chair of Education

Dean Dudley NSW Representative

Jeremy Kay QLD Representative

Katrina Antony VIC Representative

Shelly Rourke WA Representative

Kate Perry SA Representative

Philippa Lohrey TAS Representative

Sharon Stewart NT Representative

Hannah Darling National Trainer of the Year until November 2024

Julie Moran National Trainer of the Year from November 2024

Ian Grant National Assessor of the Year until November 2024

Hannah Darling National Assessor of the Year from November 2024

EDUCATION MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE:

To collaboratively deliver advice on nationally significant matters relating to education to drive consistent outcomes nationally that benefit every member, club, and state. The scope of education in this committee includes education across all portfolios of the organisation.

EDUCATION MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Pamela Simon Chair, Learning & Development Manager, SLSA

Scott Lloyd-Owen NSW Representative

Tonya Sela QLD Representative

Micah Spedding VIC Representative until February 2025

David Potter VIC Representative from February 2025

Domenic Cowdell WA Representative

Miriam Scherer SA Representative

Ned Reardon TAS Representative

Sam Edwards NT Representative

4. DEVELOPMENT

DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE:

To represent the views of SLS members on nationally significant matters relating to leadership and development programs, juniors and youth, safeguarding, mental health, pathways and engagement, recognition and achievement, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Nancy Joseph Chair of Development

Michael Henderson Deputy Chair of Development

Shannon Fox NSW Representative

Kirsten Phillips QLD Representative

Rebecca Schot-Guppy VIC Representative

Elise Stallard WA Representative

Jacinta Day SA Representative

Alison Snowden NT Representative

Allison Kable TAS Representative

Luke O’Garey National Volunteer of the Year until November 2024

Sharon Stewart National Volunteer of the Year from November 2024

Sophie Carne National Youth Surf Lifesaver of the Year until November 2024

Lachlan Olive National Youth Surf Lifesaver of the Year from November 2024

Development Advisors

Felicity MacArthur Diversity and Inclusion Advisor

Dr Samantha Fien PhD Wellbeing Advisor

Gabrielle Kinneally Junior Participation Advisor

DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE:

To collaboratively deliver advice on nationally significant matters relating to leadership and development programs, juniors and youth, safeguarding, mental health, pathways and engagement, recognition and achievement, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Pamela Simon Chair, Learning & Development Manager, SLSA

Claire Bevis NSW Representative

Brigid Pokarier QLD Representative until November 2024

Zoe Breitkreutz QLD Representative from November 2024

Kate McLauchlan VIC Representative

David Somers WA Representative until August 2024

Maddison Walker WA Representative from August 2024

Georgia Brazenall SA Representative

Alison Stubbs TAS Representative

Maddi James NT Representative

DEI WORKING GROUP

Established to ensure that those with lived experience are provided the opportunity to advise and inform diversity, equity and inclusion actions and initiatives within SLSA.

DEI WORKING GROUP

Sharon Deans Chair, Participation Coordinator, SLSA

Felicity MacArthur National DEI Advisor

Jake Little Working Group Member

Naomi Symington Working Group Member

Nicole Davey Working Group Member

Tessa Sexton

Working Group Member

Ngaire Brown Working Group Member

YOUTH WORKING GROUP

Represents youth member views, needs, concerns, values, and ideas to shape the future of the organisation for the next generation.

YOUTH WORKING GROUP

Sophie Carne Chair

Lachlan Olive Deputy Chair

Samuel Terry NSW Representative

Amanda Cannon NSW Representative

Cooper Anderson QLD Representative

Georgia Hart QLD Representative

Jackson Comrie VIC Representative

Madeleine Quail VIC Representative

Tadhg Bryan WA Representative

Indiah Reidy WA Representative

Huei Strelan SA Representative

Nic Davis SA Representative

Ciara Harvey TAS Representative

Ollie Richardson TAS Representative

Lewis Smythe NT Representative

Cooper Smythe NT Representative

5. LIFESAVING

LIFESAVING ADVISORY COMMITTEE:

To represent the views of Surf Life Saving members nationally on matters relating to lifesaving.

LIFESAVING ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Chris Jacobson Chair of Lifesaving until May 2025

Glen Gallagher Chair of Lifesaving from June 2025

Nicholas Wood Deputy Chair of Lifesaving

Joel Wiseman NSW Representative

Simon Richards QLD Representative until May 2025

Dr Samantha Fien PhD QLD Representative from June 2025

Kane Treloar VIC Representative

Liam Burke WA Representative

Mike Hartas SA Representative

Philipa Lohrey TAS Representative

Nathan McCarthy NT Representative

Cheryl McCarthy Surf Life Saver of the Year until November 2024

Mollie Murphy Surf Life Saver of the Year from November 2024 Lifesaving Advisors

Katie Dixon Independent Member until May 2025

Matthew Thompson Independent Member until May 2025

Dr Ned Douglas Meidcal Advisor

Andrew McAuliffe Powercraft Advisor

LIFESAVING MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE:

Responsible for the implementation and continual improvement of lifesaving plans, programs and activities.

LIFESAVING MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Michael Bonnici Chair, Coastal Safety Manager, SLSA

Oliver Munson / Brent Manieri

NSW Representative

Natalie Edwards QLD Representative

Chad Henry / Micah Spedding

VIC Representative

Cameron Robbins / Lachlan Olive WA Representative

Sean Faulkner

SA Representative

Ned Reardon TAS Representative

Sam Edwards NT Representative

POWERCRAFT ADVISORY GROUP:

Responsible for the implementation and continual improvement of Powercraft.

POWERCRAFT ADVISORY GROUP

Andrew McAuliffe Chair, Powercraft Advisory Group

Oliver Munson

Andrew McKellar

NSW Representative

NSW Representative

Tea Domeracki QLD IRB Representative

Harry Crosthwaite QLD RWC Representative

Ash Baxter VIC Representative

Garry Williams WA Representative

Cameron Smith SA Representative

Ned Reardon TAS Representative

Andrew McGuiness NT Representative

MEDICAL ADVISORY GROUP:

Responsible for providing expert guidance on medical standards and practices related to surf lifesaving operations.

MEDICAL ADVISORY GROUP

Dr Ned Douglas Chair, Medical Advisor

Dr Luke Wiseman NSW Representative

A/Prof. Ogilvie Thom QLD Representative

Dr Natalie Hood VIC Representative

Dr Jameson Trainor VIC Representative

A/Prof. David Reid WA Representative

Dr Leesa Equid WA Representative

Dr Lucinda Remilton SA Representative

Dr Romy Lipszyc NT Representative

THE HELICOPTER ADVISORY PANEL:

Represents the view of the helicopter services operated in states and collaborates on training and business opportunities that further the delivery of helicopter operations.

HELICOPTER ADVISORY PANEL

Shane Daw ESM Chair, Southern Region HRS SLSA (NSW)

Ken Clarke OAM QLD Representative until December 2024

John Turley QLD Representative from May 2025

Liam O’Callaghan VIC Representative until November 2024

Mitch James VIC Representative from November 2024

Tim Gleeson WA Representative

Sean Faulkner SA Representative

6. SPORT

SPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

To represent the views of Surf Life Saving members nationally on matters relating to sport.

SPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Andrew Buhk Chair of Sport until May 2025

Rachael Rylance Deputy Chair of Sport until May 2025 Chair of Sport from June 2025

Don van Keimpema OAM NSW Representative

Nigel Ward QLD Representative

Aaron Green VIC Representative

David Somers WA Representative

Pat Larven SA Representative

Jacqueline DeJonge/ Luke O’Garey TAS Representative

Maddi James NT Representative

Sport Advisors

Graham Rice Technical Advisor

Darren Warrener HP & Sport Integrity Advisor

Jennifer Kenny Officiating Advisor

Sharlene Kelly Coaching Advisor

Natasha Tunney Surf Boat Advisor

Stephen Leahy OAM Risk and Safety Advisor

SPORT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Responsible for the implementation and continual improvement of sport, programs, and activities.

SPORT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Wayne Druery Chair, Sport Manager, SLSA

Jim Pinnington / Greg Pierce NSW Representative

Stuart Hogben QLD Representative

Chris Schleusener VIC Representative

David Somers WA Representative

David Visockis SA Representative

Riley Higgins TAS Representative

Maddi James NT Representative

SURF BOAT COMMITTEE

Advises SLSA and relevant Sport committees on matters relating to Surf Boats.

SURF BOAT COMMITTEE

Natasha Tunney ASRL President

Sue Hunt Secretary

Rory Gillespie Treasurer

Geoff Wilson Vice President - Event Portfolio

Stephen Bryen Vice President - Event Portfolio

Scott Edwards Vice President - Sweep Portfolio

Greg Heard Vice President - Officials Portfolio

Edwina Wright Vice President – Athlete Development Portfolio

Grant Wilkinson Vice President - Athlete Development Portfolio

ATHLETE SELECTION PANEL

Responsible for the selection of national teams in accordance with SLSA selection policy.

ATHLETE SELECTION PANEL

Dr Shayne Baker OAM Chair

Sean Davis Independent Member

Kristyl Smith Independent Member

7. AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS COMMITTEES

COMPETITION COMMITTEE

Directs all matters relating to the actual conduct of the competition.

COMPETITION COMMITTEE

John Brennan OAM Chair – Australian Championships (Youth, Masters, Opens)

Andrew Buhk SLSA Chair of Sport

Don Van Keimpema OAM Championships Referee - Open

Michael Bate AM Championships Referee - Masters

Jenny Kenny Championships Referee – Youth Officials Advisor

Nathan Fife Safety & Emergency Management Coordinator

Paul Chivers Independent Risk Advisor

Josh Crouch Powercraft Manager

Wayne Druery Sport Manager / CEO Delegate

Jess Mensforth Event Manager

Craig Williams Host Club Representative – Tugun

Craig Lownes Host Club Representative – North Kirra

John Hammrey Host Club Representative - Bilinga

Grant Baldock / Lauren Ryan Media Liaison Officer (Observer)

Natasha Tunney / Geoff Wilson Athletes Representative (Surf Boats)

Zayne Hamil Athletes Representative (Open)

Jade Berg Athletes Representative (Youth)

8. COMMERCIAL & PARTNERSHIPS

COMMERICAL WORKING GROUP

Responsible for the discussion and management relating to member and external communications, marketing, and for the discussion and management relating to national partnerships.

MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS WORKING GROUP

Brett Morgan Co-Chair, Senior Brand, Marketing and Communications Manager, SLSA

Cherie Kellett Co-Chair, Partnerships Manager, SLSA

Donna Wishart/Patrick

Boddan/Nikki Ronald NSW Representative

Zoe Bickerstaffe QLD Representative

Andrew English VIC Representative

Minda Penn WA Representative

Darren Horne SA Representative

Alison Stubbs TAS Representative

Sarah Fisher NT Representative

9. SPECIAL PURPOSE COMMITTEES

HALL OF FAME COMMITTEE

The Panel meets to discuss SLSA Hall of Fame nominations and makes recommendations to the SLSA Board about inductions to the Hall of Fame.

HALL OF FAME COMMITTEE

John Baker AM ESM Chair, President, SLSA

Alan Whelpton AO GKN Life Governor, SLSA

Warren Rennie AM Life Member, SLSA

Kristy Munroe AM Life Member, SLSA

Heather Thompson AM Life Member, SLSA

Sas McNamara Independent Member

Jenny Miller Independent Member

HONOURS COMMITTEE

Initiates nominations to the appropriate authorities on behalf of SLSA members considered eligible for civil, sporting, community, and other awards.

HONOURS COMMITTEE

Graham Ford AO GKN Chair, SLSA Life Member

Darryl Pope OAM Independent Member

Heather Thomspon AM Independent Member

David Stogdale RFD Independent Member

Kirsten Phillips Independent Member

Darren McLeod ESM Independent Member

HISTORY COMMITTEE

Advises, comments, and submits recommendations on the collection, conservation, management, and documentation of the history of surf lifesaving in Australia.

HISTORY COMMITTEE

Tim Tucak Chair

Prue Weber Independent Member

Raelene Donnell Independent Member

Ray Petersen Independent Member

Ian Tannahill Independent Member

Ken Knight BEM Independent Member

Ed Jaggard OAM Independent Member until March 2025

MERITORIOUS AWARDS SELECTION COMMITTEE

Selects individuals, lifesavers, and/or groups for Meritorious Awards. Selects individual lifesavers and/or groups for the Lifesaver of the Year Award and other associate programs, awards, and educational tours.

MERITORIOUS AWARDS SELECTION COMMITTEE

Chris Jacobson Chair of Lifesaving

Nichloas Wood Deputy Chair Lifesaving

Darren McLeod ESM Independent Member

Katie Dixon Independent Member

Darryl Pope OAM Independent Member

RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN (RAP) WORKING GROUP

Established to assist with the development of the SLSA Reflect Reconciliation Plan, with the overarching intention of working positively towards reconciliation.

RAP WORKING GROUP

Tanya Demaria Co-Chair (SA)

Wade Krueger Co-Chair (QLD)

Sarah Cutbush SLSA Board Member

Adam Traugott SLSA Board Member

Michelle Bainbridge SLSA Staff

Sharon Deans SLSA Staff

Sarah Harris SLSA Staff

Elle Kuhta SLSA Staff

Sam Macdonnell SLSA Staff

Dan Morgan Working Group Member (NSW)

Jette Oksis

Working Group Member (WA)

Craig Raymond Working Group Member (NSW)

Kelly Shoecraft

Nicola Street

Rachael Wynberg

Working Group Member (QLD)

Working Group Member (NSW)

Working Group Member (QLD)

FINANCIAL REPORT

FINANCIAL REPORT

SUMMARISED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2025

The summarised financial statements are an extract from the full financial report for the year ended 30 June 2025. The financial statements and specific disclosures included in the summarised financial statements have been derived from the 2025 financial report of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries.

The summarised financial statements cannot be expected to provide as full an understanding of the financial performance, financial position and financing and investing activities of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries as the full financial report.

The full financial report and the auditor’s report will be submitted to the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission.

DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2025

1. STATEMENTS OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

The consolidated entity recorded an operating surplus before Trust Funds for the financial year ended 30 June 2025 of $2,014,870 (2024: $3,451,570). Including the net returns from the Foundation Perpetuity Trust (FPT) resulted in a consolidated surplus of $3,968,963 after Trust Funds (2024: $2,206,538 deficit).

Consolidated revenue for 2025 increased by $7,932,332 to $99,488,657 (2024: $91,556,325). Sponsorship increased to $14,159,416 (2024: $12,698,306), while government Grants remained relatively consistent at $15,032,328 (2024: $14,776,665). Revenue from the Foundation’s lottery program continues to grow, increasing by $5,765,588 to $53,154,484 (2024: $47,388,896) as a result of another significant annual increase in the number of members in our Champions Club. Fundraising and donations collected during the year also increased to $10,877,611 (2024: $9,841,889).

Consolidated expenditure for 2025 increased by $9,379,191 to $97,328,071 (2024: $87,948,880). Expenditure on lifesaving, development and education increased to $24,878,293 (2024: $22,208,589). Expenditure on competitions increased to $7,516,603 (2024: $6,606,981). Overall expenditure for helicopter administration and operations including finance costs was relatively consistent at $4,353,558 (2024: $4,276,319). Foundation commercial expenditure, which includes the cost of prizes for lotteries, increased to $42,113,395 (2024: $39,524,800) as we continued our investment in attracting new members to our Champions Club. Philanthropic expenses decreased slightly to $2,258,924 (2024: $2,501,125) while distributions to states as a result of fundraising activities increased by $3,771,594 to $9,858,958 (2024: $6,087,364).

2. STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

The consolidated surplus after trust returns increased net assets to $48,748,687 (2024: $44,779,724). Total assets increased to $80,795,907 (2024: $62,366,100) largely due to the recognition of the new helicopter leasing agreement. The current ratio (current assets: current liabilities) which reflects the short-term liquidity of the organisation is a healthy 3.13 (2024: 3.50).

Property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets increased to $22,346,746 (2024: $9,665,535) as a result of the aforementioned helicopter lease, and we continued the rewrite of our core lifesaving software systems. Trade payables, accrued expenses, deferred revenue and lease liabilities make up the bulk of liabilities which increased to $32,047,220 (2024: $17,586,376). The consolidated entity has no borrowings.

3. STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

For the consolidated group, cash increased by $5,037,471 (2024: $1,686,449 decrease) to $21,200,982 (2024: $16,163,511). Net cash inflow from operating activities was $8,116,816 (2024: $3,389,151 outflow). Net cash outflow from investment activities was $164,361 (2024: $4,573,876 inflow) which represent net investment proceeds in the Foundation Perpetuity Trust, offset by payments for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. Outflows of $2,914,984 (2024: $2,871,174) for financing activities represent repayments of principal on leases.

The Directors are satisfied that the consolidated entity has sufficient cash reserves to meet its liabilities as and when they fall due for a period of at least twelve months following the date of authorisation of the financial report.

STATEMENTS OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

For the year ended 30 June 2025

surplus / (deficit) from Trust Funds

-Surplus / (deficit) after income tax expense and Trust Funds for the year attributable to the members of Surf Life Saving Australia

Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax -

comprehensive income / (deficit) for the year attributable to the members of Surf Life Saving Australia

The above statements of profit or loss and other comprehensive income are to be read in conjunction with the attached notes.

STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

As at 30 June 2025

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

For the year ended 30 June 2025

The

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

As at 30 June 2025

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2025

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The Summary Financial Statements have been prepared from the audited financial report for Surf Life Saving Australia Limited (‘company’, ‘parent entity’ or ‘registered entity’) and the entities that it controlled (‘consolidated entity’ or ‘group’) during and at the end of the year ended 30 June 2025. The audited financial report for the year ended 30 June 2025 is submitted to the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission, and is available to Surf Life Saving Australia Limited’s voting members on request from Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries.

The financial statements are presented in Australian Dollars which is Surf Life Saving Australia Limited’s functional and presentation currency. The financial statements, specific disclosures and other information included in the summary financial statements are derived from and are consistent with the full financial statements of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries. The summary financial statements cannot be expected to provide as detailed an understanding of the financial performance, financial position and financing and investing activities of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries as the full financial report.

2. REVENUE

Revenue has been disaggregated by revenue type in the below table, with sales outside of Australia representing less than 1% of revenue.

*Timing of revenue recognition represents goods or services transferred at a point in time **Timing of revenue recognition represents services and investment income transferred over time ***Timing of revenue recognition disclosed in the Sources of Government funding on page 84

SOURCES OF GOVERNMENT FUNDING

State Government  The Crown in right of the state of New South Wales acting through the Premier’s Department*

* Timing of revenue recognition represents goods and services transferred at a point in time

** Timing of revenue recognition represents services transferred over time

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2025

3. EXPENSES

4. TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

5. OTHER ASSETS (CURRENT)

6. OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS (NON-CURRENT)

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2025

7. TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES

Non Current

Recognition and Measurement

Liabilities are recognised for amounts to be paid in the future for goods and services received, whether or not billed to the consolidated entity. The liabilities are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Liabilities are also recognised as income in advance relating to any unfulfilled performance obligations at the period end (refer Note 2).

The public liability claims pool is administered by the parent entity on behalf of the parent entity and all its State Centres to manage part of the public liability risk for all of Surf Life Saving Australia’s entities covered by the parent entity’s public liability insurance. Current estimates by insurance broker (Marsh Advantage) calculated a potential liability of $1,029,679 related to reported claims that are currently outstanding (2024: $823,700). This amount makes up the current liability portion shown above.

8. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

With the exception of some casual staff, all staff are employed by the parent entity. Salary and wages expenses incurred by the parent are reimbursed by subsidiary entities where required. Employee benefits liabilities recorded by the parent entity include those staff working for subsidiary entities.

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2025

9. LEASES

The consolidated entity recognises leases for the use of assets under AASB 16 Leases. These are recognised as right-of-use assets and associated liabilities split between current and non-current liabilities.

Expenses incurred include the following amount specific to the leases:

not included in the measurement of lease

The consolidated entity leases land and buildings for its offices, aircraft hangar, and warehouse under agreements of three years. On renewal, the terms of the leases are renegotiated. The consolidated entity also leases plant and equipment under an agreement of four years. The consolidated entity has an agreement for the provision of helicopter services which is recognised as a lease under AASB 16. Lease payments include a fixed daily charge as well as variable payments dependant on the number of hours flown by the aircraft. The initial term of the lease agreement was for a period of 5 years and expired on 31 July 2025. The option to extend for a further 5 years has been exercised by the company and recognised as a modification under AASB 16.

The consolidated entity’s office at 1 Notts Avenue Bondi Beach is occupied under a 40 year lease for $70 per year. The premises are used as the head office for Surf Life Saving Australia and the terms of the lease restrict its usage to this purpose. The consolidated entity is dependent on the lease to the extent that it does not incur the cost of commercial rents to occupy office space and can therefore allocate those funds to its charitable purposes.

The consolidated entity occupies the helicopter base at Cape Banks Reserve, Botany Bay on a 99 year lease with no lease payments, under the Crown Lands Act (1989). The consolidated entity is dependent on its right to occupy the base in order to operate the service. These lease arrangements have been recognised at cost; as a not-for-profit entity, the consolidated entity has elected to take relief from recognising its concessionary leases at fair value.

10. REMUNERATION OF AUDITORS

During the financial year the following fees were paid or payable for services provided by BDO Audit Pty Ltd, the auditor of the company, its network firms and unrelated firms:

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2025

11. CONTINGENCIES

Public Liability Claims Pool

The parent entity manages a public liability claims pool on behalf of the parent entity and all Surf Life Saving Australia’s State Centres. A review has indicated that the funds held in the pool will be sufficient to cover the cost of all expected claims.

12. MEMBERS’ EQUITY ISSUED CAPITAL

The parent entity is a company limited by guarantee and as such does not have any issued capital. If the company is wound up, the Constitution states that each member is required to contribute a maximum of $10 each towards meeting any outstanding obligations of the company. As at 30 June 2025 the number of members was 207,962 (2024: 198,916).

13. DETAILS OF SUBSIDIARIES

Southern Region SLSA Helicopter Rescue Service Pty Ltd  (1)

SLSA Helicopters Pty Ltd

Surf Sports Australia Pty Ltd

Foundation Perpetuity Trust  (2)  Australia

The Surf Life Saving Foundation Limited  (1)(2)  Australia

(1) Compliance with the financial disclosure requirements of the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 (NSW) has been disclosed in the financial statements of these entities.

(2) The Surf Life Saving Foundation is a company limited by guarantee with Surf Life Saving Australia Limited as the sole voting member. The Foundation Perpetuity Trust is a charitable trust which has been consolidated by the Group from 1 November 2022 (refer note 15)

The parent entity acts as manager for the Surf Life Saving Child Safe Trust, a charitable trust registered with the ACNC. The parent entity has not received any fees for acting as manager. The parent entity has assessed the elements of control of the Trust under AASB 10 and has made a key accounting judgement that it does not control the Trust and has therefore not consolidated the Trust’s financial statements into its own.

14. RESERVES

The purpose of the SLSA Financial Reserves Policy is to contribute to the long-term financial stability of the organisation. Reserves should provide balance sheet stability, enable SLSA to continue to achieve its strategic objectives in cases of temporary shortage of operating funds, and provide additional returns for capital investment outside of its normal operating budget.

The Operating Reserve is intended to provide an internal source of funds for situations such as a short-term cash shortage caused by a delay in receipt of government funding or major sponsorship instalment. Operating Reserves are not intended to replace a permanent loss of funds or eliminate an ongoing budget gap. If Operating Reserves are used it is the intention that they be replenished within a reasonably short period of time.

The Capital Reserve is intended to provide low risk returns that SLSA can access to fund additional capital expenditure or new initiatives that require funding from outside SLSA’s regular operating budget. Secondary to this, principal funds can be called upon for larger capital requirements or to allow the organisation to continue operating through a loss of significant funding or restrictive economic environment.

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2025

15. FOUNDATION PERPETUITY TRUST

The Surf Life Saving Foundation (SLSF), a subsidiary of the parent entity (SLSA), acts as trustee for the Foundation Perpetuity Trust, a charitable trust which is maintained and applied solely for specific purposes outlined in its Trust Deed. The SLSF Board endorsed an amendment to the Trust deed effective November 2022 which confirmed SLSA as an eligible recipient of distributions from the Trust. SLSA has assessed the elements of control of the Foundation Perpetuity Trust under AASB 10 and has determined that it has subsequently assumed control of the Trust from the date of this amendment. SLSA’s consolidated financial statements therefore include the financial statements of the Foundation Perpetuity Trust from this date onward and are summarised below:

Foundation Perpetuity Trust Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 30 June 2025

tax expense relating to continuing operations

(7,700,671) Net surplus / (deficit) from continuing operations after income tax expense and trust distributions

Other comprehensive income

(5,658,108)

Total comprehensive income / (deficit) for the period 1,954,093 (5,658,108)

* Trust distributions in 2024 exclude $1,000,000 distributed to Surf Life Saving Australia Limited which has been eliminated on consolidation.

Perpetuity Trust Statement of Financial Position

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2025

16. EVENTS OCCURRING AFTER THE REPORTING PERIOD

No matter or circumstance has arisen since the end of the financial year that has significantly affected, or may significantly affect the consolidated entity’s operations, the results of those operations, or the consolidated entity’s state of affairs in future financial years.

17. COMPANY DETAILS

The registered office and principal place of business of the consolidated entity is 1 Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach NSW 2026.

DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2025

In accordance with a resolution of the directors of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited, the directors of the company declare that the summary financial statements of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries for the financial year ended 30 June 2025, as set out on pages 79 - 89, is an extract from the full financial report for the year ended 30 June 2025 and has been derived from and is consistent with the full financial report of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries.

On behalf of the Directors by

Darrin Bragg

Director

Sydney, 24 September 2025

Jennifer Cook

Director

Sydney, 24 September 2025

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

To the members of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Report on the Audit of the Summary Financial Statements

Opinion

To the members of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited

The summary financial statements, which comprises the statements of financial position as at 30 June 2025, the statements of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, the statements of changes in equity and the statements of cash flows for the year then ended, and related notes, are derived from the audited financial report of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited for the year ended 30 June 2025.

Report on the Audit of the Summary Financial Statements Opinion

In our opinion, the accompanying summary financial statements are consistent, in all material respects, with the audited financial report, on the basis described in the summary financial statements.

Summary Financial Statements

The summary financial statements, which comprises the statements of financial position as at 30 June 2025, the statements of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, the statements of changes in equity and the statements of cash flows for the year then ended, and related notes, are derived from the audited financial report of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited for the year ended 30 June 2025.

In our opinion, the accompanying summary financial statements are consistent, in all material respects, with the audited financial report, on the basis described in the summary financial statements.

Summary Financial Statements

The summary financial statements do not contain all the disclosures required by Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures and the financial reporting requirements of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012. Reading the summary financial statements and the auditor's report thereon, therefore, is not a substitute for reading the audited financial report and the auditor's report thereon. The summary financial statements and the audited financial report do not reflect the effects of events that occurred subsequent to the date of our report on the audited financial report.

The Audited Financial Report and Our Report Thereon

We expressed an unmodified audit opinion on the audited financial report in our report dated 24 September 2025.

Directors’ Responsibility for the Summary Financial Statements

The summary financial statements do not contain all the disclosures required by Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures and the financial reporting requirements of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012. Reading the summary financial statements and the auditor's report thereon, therefore, is not a substitute for reading the audited financial report and the auditor's report thereon. The summary financial statements and the audited financial report do not reflect the effects of events that occurred subsequent to the date of our report on the audited financial report.

The Audited Financial Report and Our Report Thereon

The Directors are responsible for the preparation of the summary financial statements on the basis described in the summary financial statements.

Auditor's Responsibility

We expressed an unmodified audit opinion on the audited financial report in our report dated 24 September 2025.

Directors’ Responsibility for the Summary Financial Statements

The Directors are responsible for the preparation of the summary financial statements on the basis described in the summary financial statements.

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on whether the summary financial statements are consistent, in all material respects, with the audited financial report based on our procedures, which were conducted in accordance with Auditing Standard ASA 810 Engagements to Report on Summary Financial Statements Parkline

Auditor's Responsibility

BDO Audit Pty Ltd

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on whether the summary financial statements are consistent, in all material respects, with the audited financial report based on our procedures, which were conducted in accordance with Auditing Standard ASA 810 Engagements to Report on Summary Financial Statements

Martin Coyle Director

Sydney, 24 September 2025

Tel: +61 2 9251

Fax: +61 2 9240 9821

www.bdo.com.au

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE BY MARTIN COYLE TO THE DIRECTORS OF SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTRALIA LIMITED

I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited for the year ended 30 June 20 25.

This declaration is in respect of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and the entities it controlled during the period.

Martin Coyle Director

BDO Audit Pty Ltd Sydney, 24 September 2025

AWARDS AND HONOURS

SLSA HALL OF FAME

SLSA HALL OF FAME SURF LIFESAVING

Major John Bond

Harold John Brown OAM

Michael Burke BEM

Professor Tess Cramond OBE AO

Currumbin Patrol Competition team

Jack Dearlove MBE

Bob Gear AM

Alan Kennedy MBE

Dr Ian Mackie AM

Michael White

Graham McKenzie OAM

Hector McDonald OAM

Warren Allen Rennie AM

Earle Smith AM

Ainslie W ‘Sprint’ Walker OBE

Peter George AM COM

Mark Fife OAM

Hayden Kenny

Arthur Parkyn OAM

LEADERSHIP SPORT

Gregory Arthur Allum AM COM

Cornelius Kennedy Asmussen MBE

Sir Adrian Curlewis CVO CBE

Roy Doyle

Theo Haywood

Cliff Marsh OAM

Donald D McIntyre

John West (Jack) McMaster AM DFC

Tom Meagher OBE

Lyster Ormsby

Charles Davidson Paterson

Ronald E Rankin AM

Paul Smith OAM

Barry Bede (Gus) Staunton MBE

Ron Tallon OAM

F.O. (Frank) Venning MBE

Ken W.C. Watson MBE

Alan Brian Whelpton AO GKN

Dan White OAM

Jack Winders OBE

SW (Bill) Winders MBE

Ian (Rick) Wright OAM

Robert Brydon AM

Graham Ford AO GKN

John Bliss

Ballina Lighthouse & Lismore Open

Boat Crew

Bondi R&R team

Bundaberg March Past Team

Graham Carlisle OAM

Jon Donohoe AM

Harold C Evans

Karla Gilbert OAM

Kristy Harris

Trevor Hendy AM

Dennis Heussner OAM

John Robert Holt OAM

Ky Hurst

Brian Hutchings

Grant Kenny OAM

Bruce Kolkka

Peter Lacey

Robert Little OAM

Killcare Open Mens Beach Relay Team

Maroubra SLSC Double Ski Team

Northcliffe Open Patrol Competition Team

Mona Vale Black Open A Surf Boat Crew

Kate Czerny

Andrew Kelckhoven

Geoff Waters OAM

Melissa Cracroft-Wilson (nee Howard)

Simon Harris

Elizabeth Pluimers

Clint Robinson OAM

Kristy Munroe AM

Ken Murray

Bob Newbiggin

Harry Nightingale

SPORT

Clint Robinson OAM

Barry Rodgers

Noel P Ryan

Peter Douglas Tibbitts

Ken Vidler

Wanda Six Man R&R Team

Stephen Warren

Graham Ross White OAM

Steve Wilkes

Shannon Eckstein

Michael Jones

Naomi Flood

North Cottesloe Open Surf Boat—J Crew

Lenore Grice OAM

Lachlan Tame

Alison O’Toole

South Port Open March Past Team

Andrew Bowden

Don Morrison OAM

Robert (Rob) Mayo AM

Elly Miller

Georgia Miller

Darren Mercer OAM

James (Harvie) Stansell

Peter Milburn

Dean Mercer OAM

Murray Braund

Alexandra Headland SLSC Patrol team

NATIONAL AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

YOUTH SURF LIFESAVER OF THE YEAR

Lachlan Olive – Coogee Beach SLSC, WA

Starting as a nipper in 2016, Lachlan has become an invaluable part of Coogee Beach SLSC and Western Australia’s lifesaving community. His commitment to lifesaving is highlighted by his roles as Vice-Captain of Aqua Patrol and Youth Coordinator, where he organises youth programs and encourages new memberships.

In the 2023/24 season he was appointed as a Safety and Emergency Management Officer at the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships further underscoring his expertise. Additionally, Lachlan led CBSLSC’s Beach Bums camps, fostering camaraderie and skill development among younger members and ensuring their safety during unforeseen events, such as a storm relocation.

Lachlan’s influence extends to CBSLSC’s committees, where he contributes to operational decisions and training programs. Recently appointed as SLSWA’s Lifesaving Development Officer, Lachlan now supports lifesaving operations across 31 clubs, blending professional experience with his volunteer work. His leadership has reinvigorated CBSLSC’s youth engagement through innovative programs, like IRB “Have-a-go” sessions, boosting interest in surf rescue skills.

Through his dedication to CBSLSC and broader initiatives, Lachlan has fostered a supportive, skill-building environment for young members and contributed meaningfully to surf lifesaving in Western Australia.

DHL LIFEGUARD OF THE YEAR

Rory Sanders – Australian Lifeguard Service, QLD

Rory has served as a fulltime lifeguard at Rainbow Beach for the past three years. He has been responsible for overseeing and managing operations across Rainbow Beach, Teewah Beach and Inskip Point.

Covering a vast area, which is relatively remote, Rory has also had to deal with the challenges of the area and ever changing, and often challenging, coast, in addition to the fact that he is often operating as the sole lifeguard in these areas with no nearby support.

As a result, Rory has developed key skills in ensuring all items are rescue ready and top condition. He has had to be able to think on his feet and adapt to changing environments and emergencies knowing that he may be the only person managing these for some time until other support arrives.

With these experiences, Rory has become instrumental in the training of new staff, setting performance standards and acting as a mentor for other lifeguards coming through. He has established and maintains strong relationships with Ambulance and Police and has demonstrated exceptional leadership and organisational skills.

Rory is proactive and solutions based and has demonstrated a commitment that has seen him recognised as a role model for other lifeguards and setting a benchmark for the delivery of professional lifeguard services and working with other key stakeholders to ensure the safety and lives of others.

DHL VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Sharon Stewart – Darwin SLSC, NT

Sharon has been a cornerstone of the Darwin SLSC for many years, demonstrating unwavering dedication and commitment to surf lifesaving and community service. As Director of Education, she has empowered countless members, ensuring they are well-trained and equipped to keep our beaches safe.

Her positivity and high energy set a standard for everyone around her. Sharon’s leadership in organising the Darwin Ocean Swim - the Northern Territory’s only ocean swim event - has not only united the community but also reassured everyone that it’s safe to swim in Darwin’s waters. Her contributions have strengthened the club and inspired a strong sense of community and camaraderie across all NT SLS Clubs.

DHL SURF LIFESAVER OF THE YEAR

Mollie Murphy – Umina SLSC, NSW

Mollie embodies the spirit of surf lifesaving. Since joining as a nipper, Mollie has tirelessly contributed to the club, logging an impressive 781 patrol hours and showing an unwavering commitment to beach safety.

Beyond her lifesaving role, Mollie has inspired the next generation through youth development, including leading a Duke of Ed Kokoda expedition. Her initiatives, like the Patrol of the Year and youth patrol trips, have transformed club culture, fostering pride and engagement among members.

Mollie’s resilience was also evident as she guided her team through a challenging Christmas Day incident with strength and unity.

Through her vision and dedication, Mollie has left a lasting impact on her club and community, exemplifying SLSA’s mission of saving lives, building great Australians, and creating better communities.

DHL CLUB OF THE YEAR

Terrigal SLSC, NSW

Terrigal SLSC has driven major positive change through three key initiatives.

Governance Transformation: A new constitution and policies have strengthened governance, voting rights, communication, and the Life Membership process. Experienced Board Directors now mentor newer members, with a stronger focus on strategy, risk management, and accountability. Annual reports from the past 50 years have been digitised, and the Club is transitioning to paperless systems.

‘Something for Everyone’ Philosophy: Terrigal has broadened opportunities to boost engagement and retention. Lifesaving achievements are celebrated, with gold medallion holders receiving a numbered red and yellow cap and recognition on the Club’s honour board. Members also benefit from free First Aid, drone, and RWC training. Youth and Nipper programs were enhanced through family-focused events that make participation fun and inclusive.

Community Leadership and Partnerships: Terrigal continues to strengthen its role in the community. The Ocean Swim and Cancer Council Daffodil Dip raised $34,000 for the Club and $40,000 for the NSW Cancer Council. The Clontarf Foundation camp welcomed 15 Indigenous young men to learn surf safety and community values, while the Legacy program introduced families and children to lifesaving in a fun beach setting.

With strong governance and a welcoming culture, Terrigal SLSC is better positioned than ever to save lives, support members, and grow sustainably.

TRAINER OF THE YEAR

Julie Moran – Beachport SLSC, SA

As Chief Instructor for Beachport SLSC, Julie has significantly impacted local training programs, growing the Beachport Vacswim Program to a peak of 324 participants. As an inspiring force in community safety, Julie has introduced numerous training initiatives, effectively trained over 100 members, and designed programs that emphasise lifesaving skills.

Her adaptability and commitment are evident in her response to challenges, including the implementation of online training. The life-saving impact of her work is exemplified by a 2019 incident where a trained member successfully performed a resuscitation. Julie’s efforts not only enhance individual skills but also strengthen the broader Surf Life Saving community.

ASSESSOR OF THE YEAR

Hannah Darling – Grange SLSC, SA

Hannah, Chief Instructor at Grange SLSC and associate member of Seacliff and North Haven SLSC, exemplifies leadership in lifesaving education. With a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, she has delivered numerous qualifications and logged over 1,000 patrol hours.

Hannah has initiated significant programs such as the ‘Trainer in Training’ at Grange, and led statewide assessments, impacting over 160 candidates. Her mentorship and workshops have revitalised engagement among peers and improved education practices across South Australia, highlighting her exceptional commitment to the lifesaving community.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAM OF THE YEAR

Fit to Learn – Newport SLSC, NSW

The Fit to Learn Program at Newport SLSC is designed for Sydney’s troubled youth who are disengaged in the education system. It aims to enhance their intellectual and social skills while fostering positive relationships with the NSW Police Force.

Operating since November 2022, it has successfully engaged 30 youth and five Police Officers in the Surf Rescue Certificate course, promoting teamwork and essential life skills. Participants have shown increased engagement and confidence, with some returning to their local surf club following the program.

The Program has been recognised for its significant positive impact in the community, including a commendation from the Region Commander for its commitment and leadership.

INNOVATION OF THE YEAR

Search and Rescue Camp – Inverloch SLSC, VIC

The Search and Rescue (SAR) Information Day program at Inverloch SLSC is a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing lifesaving training and community safety. Developed in response to identified gaps in SAR knowledge following a 2023 training event, this program includes a SAR-themed camp that successfully improved theoretical and practical skills among participants.

Over four days, attendees engaged in hands-on scenarios, fostering teamwork and inter-agency collaboration. The program has significantly increased participants’ confidence and capabilities, leading to improved emergency responses and stronger community safety. It has also inspired further innovation within the club, enhancing its reputation for training excellence and establishing a template for future initiatives in lifesaving practices.

SURF SPORT OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR

John Hamrey – Bilinga SLSC, QLD

John is a versatile Senior Official in surf lifesaving, excelling in various roles from carnival referee to announcer at club, branch, state, and national levels. His broad competition knowledge allows him to manage diverse responsibilities effectively.

As Point Danger Branch Officials Advisor for the past four years, John has overseen the training of 46 Technical and 15 Core Officials in the 2023/24 season. He has implemented a structured process to monitor probationary officials, track their progress, and lead professional development initiatives to enhance communication, rules comprehension, and safety protocols.

In his role as State Surf Officials Advisor, John spearheaded key projects like the Officials Incentive Project and improved mentoring and exit strategies for officials. His efforts ensure the continued development and recognition of officials. He also contributed to the 2024 Lifesaving World Championships as part of the Local Organising Committee, further demonstrating his leadership in the sport.

In addition, John was on the 2024 Lifesaving World Championships – Local Organising Committee.

SURF SPORT COACH OF THE YEAR

Andrew Mosel – Trigg Island SLSC, WA

Andrew is the Head of Coaching and Athlete Development and overall club training program coordinator at Trigg Island SLSC for Youth, Open, and Masters athletes. His role includes coaching board, iron, running, and surf swimming, serving as a mentor, and assessing coaches. Under Andrew’s leadership, Trigg Island won back-to-back WA State Championships with a record 871 points in 2024, a 114-point improvement over the previous year.

Andrew’s structured training programs were pivotal in Trigg’s dominance, particularly in board events, where the club won 14 individual and 10 relay medals at the State Championship. The women’s teams swept all board, Cameron, and Taplin relays across multiple age groups. At the 2024 Australian Championships, Andrew’s athletes won gold in the U/17 Female Board Relay and U/14 Male Surf Race, along with several other medals.

Beyond coaching, Andrew supports the development of fellow coaches, running a “Coach the Coaches” clinic in January 2024, and mentoring less experienced coaches. His commitment to continuous improvement includes pursuing certifications like the Performance Coach accreditation and using athlete feedback to enhance his programs. Through his leadership, Andrew has significantly elevated both coach and athlete performance at Trigg Island.

SURF SPORT YOUTH ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Riley Brennan – Currumbin SLSC, QLD

Riley is a standout athlete who represented Australia in four major lifesaving teams during the 2023/24 season, excelling in both youth and senior competitions. His selection for the 2023 Battle of the Tasman, New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships, German Cup (Open team), and Commonwealth Championships underscores his talent. At the German Cup, he placed ninth overall, contributing significantly to Australia’s win.

Riley competed in 20 carnivals across various disciplines, earning 14 state and 12 national medals (including three Australian records). He also collected additional ocean event medals and played a key role in the Queensland Cyclones’ and Point Danger Seawolves’ victories.

Despite a demanding schedule, Riley completed 57.2 patrol hours, ranking in the Top 10 at Currumbin SLSC, and engaged younger members through coaching and water safety. His dedication to patrol duties, mentorship, and club activities makes him a positive role model and outstanding ambassador for Surf Life Saving.

SURF SPORT ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Lana Rogers – BMD Northcliffe, QLD

Lana had a remarkable ironwoman season, claiming victories in the Coolangatta Gold, Australian Championships, Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain Series, and Summer of Surf Series. Her consistent podium finishes, particularly in every round of the NutriGrain Series, solidified her status as one of the sport’s greats.

At the Queensland Championships, she won the individual board title and contributed to Northcliffe’s wins in the surf team and taplin races, earning additional medals in the board relay and rescue tube rescue. Transferring to Northcliffe SLSC for the 2023/24 season, Lana supported water safety and ran nipper clinics. Notably, she helped rescue swimmers caught in a rip at a Nutri-Grain carnival in Maroubra, January 2024.

SURF SPORT TEAM OF THE YEAR

Bulli SLSC Open Men’s Surf Boat Crew, NSW

FRASER WORTHINGTON, HEATH MERCER, KYLE MERCER, DEAN ROBERTS AND SWEEP SHANE GELOVEN

The Bulli SLSC Open Men’s Surf Boat crew focused on major events, consistently excelling on surf lifesaving’s biggest stages. In the 2023/24 season, they won their third consecutive and fourth overall Australian Championship in the Open Male Surf Boat event. They also secured national team selection at the Australian Team Selection Carnival, winning the Open Men’s category at the Trans-Tasman Championships. Additionally, they placed second at the Australian Surf Rowers League (ASRL) Open and reached the semi-finals at the SLSNSW State Titles.

With a core group together for nearly 20 years, these Illawarra surf lifesaving juniors are deeply involved in surf club life. Their contributions extend beyond competition, with active patrols, mentorship of U/23 Male Surf Boat crews, and participation in Bulli’s 24Hour Row for mental health awareness. Their achievements and humility continue to attract new members and promote Surf Life Saving through local media, maintaining Bulli’s strong surf boat program.

MERITORIOUS AWARDS

Meritorious Awards are awarded to affiliated clubs and/or their members and/or members of the public for outstanding deeds of bravery performed in the sphere of surf lifesaving operations. This includes lifesaving, both in and outside designated patrol hours. In 2024/25, Certificates of Merit were awarded to the following:

INDIVIDUAL CERTIFICATE OF MERIT WITH BRONZE INSERT

Luke Plant, Woolamai Beach SLSC, QLD, 24 January 2024

INDIVIDUAL CERTIFICATE OF MERIT

Anthony Ching, Member of the Public, NSW, 31 March 2024

GROUP CERTIFICATE OF MERIT WITH BRONZE INSERT

Nathan de Rooy, Cape Hawke SLSC/Lower North Coast Branch, NSW, 13 March 2024

Reece Dodds, Cape Hawke SLSC/Lower North Coast Branch, NSW, 13 March 2024

Gary Curtis, Cape Hawke SLSC/Lower North Coast Branch, NSW, 13 March 2024

Deahn Westland, Port Douglas SLSC, QLD, 30 April 2023

Jeremy Kay, Ellis Beach SLSC, QLD, 30 April 2023

GROUP CERTIFICATE OF MERIT

Ava Williams, Maroochydore SLSC, QLD, 26 January 2023

Ruby Williams, Maroochydore SLSC, QLD, 26 January 2023

Morgan Williams, Maroochydore SLSC, QLD, 26 January 2023

INDIVIDUAL BRONZE MEDALLION

Bradley Marsden, Coolangatta SLSC, QLD, 10 February 2024

SLSA LIFE MEMBERS

RECOGNISING DISTINGUISHED SERVICE

Life Membership of SLSA is awarded to members who have contributed distinguished voluntary service to SLSA for more than 20 years. To be considered as distinguished service, the service must be both sustained, and provide an evident contribution.

115 Staunton MBe GKn, BB

129 Whelpton Ao GKn, AB

138 Heywood oBe , nJ

140 Knight BeM, Kc

141 McGee, e J

148 Bruce oAM, BD

149 Blackley, Dt

154 Smith oAM, RA

159 Stapleton AM, PR

161 thorburn, AJ

162 Rennie AM GKn, WA

165 Watson AM, RJ

168 Scott oAM, iD

178 Little oAM, RA

181 Stephens oAM, eB

182 Butler oAM, RJ

192 Davis oAM, e

193 Whitmore oAM, Rt

194 Pears oAM, Re

196 Priest, Kc

197 Beasley oAM, JB

198 Smith oAM, BJ

207 Wright oAM, iJ

208 Rankin AM, Re

211 Devlin AM Kc, RP

215 Lyons oAM, GR

216 Allum AM coM, GA

217 Jaggard oAM Prof., eKG

Deceased

1. * Doyle, RD

2. * Rathborne, HB

3. * Burke BeM, MJ

4. * Mcintyre, DD

5. * Windon, SJ

218 Gaynor oAM RFD, We

221 McGibbon, PJ

222 Morarty oAM, nW

224 edstein oAM, Jt

226 Meehan oAM, JV

227 George AM coM, PB

228 Wood eSM, RS

230 Mayo AM, RJ

231 Fenner AM, PJ

232 Young oAM, iJ

233 Bird oAM, Kc

234 inwood AM, AJ

235 Kelk oAM, nt

237 Donohoe AM, Jt

238 owen, GB

239 Grant oAM, iJ

241 Kennedy oAM, KA

243 Fitzgerald oAM, JB

247 Smith oAM, RA

249 Bartlett oAM, Me

250 Boulton oAM, DJ

251 Fraser oAM, JS

252 Martin AM, MJ

253 Mitchell oAM, RA

257 Strange oAM, SR

259 thompson AM Kn, DP

260 Burling oAM, Je

262 White, c

264 Welch oAM, R

265 Jamieson oAM AFSM, WB

266 Haven AM, FA

267 Farmer oAM, eK

268 Bruce AM, G

269 Blake oAM, RA

271 Goode oAM, iA

272 Smith oAM, AM

273 Pearce oAM, PM

274 Fife oAM, MA

275 connell, PJ

276 Bignold oAM, RB

277 Ford Ao GKn, GB

278 Larkins, K

279 Boardman oAM, tP

280 Hoyland oAM, DP

281 Fife, MA

282 Restuccia oAM, J

283 thompson AM, HA

284 Barratt, LA

285 Kirkwood AM, P

286 Kenny, PJ

287 creek, RW

288 Grice oAM, LM

289 Hood eSM, nA

290 Joseph, nR

291 Storrie, SK

292 Farmer AM eSM GKn, nH

293 Hopton oAM, cJ

294 Kenny, JA

295 Laing oAM, c W

296 Miller, G

298 Brennan oAM, JJ

300 Wyeth, R

301 Gowing, GP

302 Harrod, B

303 van Keimpema oAM, DJ

304 Baker AM eSM, JRi

305 Bate, MJ

306 Marsh, D

307 McLennan, WJ

309 Seeney, A

310 Buhk, A

311 Smith-Gander AM, c

312 Jeanneret oAM, c

313 eady, t

314 Brynes oAM, S

315 Williams, c

ILS Grand Knight - GKN

ILS Knight - KN ILS Commander – COM

* McRorie, JS

* canning, Jt

* Goold, WJ

* cohen, GS

* Holmes, capt A

* Dart, GW

* Moran, tF

* taylor, ce

Dargan, FH

* Whitehead, c W

* Dellit, GS

* Gordon, JL

* englert, cG

* Gray, Je

* Winders MBe , SW

21. * cohen, M

22. * cronin, VS

23. * Watson MBe , KW

24. * curlewis c Vo cBe , Sir AH

25. * Dillon, JB

26. * cameron, JR

27. * turner, LD

28. * Sutherland, Ac

29. * cahill, J

30. * Marshall BeM, eR

31. * Hanley, GR

32. * Millar, G

33. * Hayton oBe KStJ, n

34. * Webb, GR

35. * Figtree, AS

36. * thompson, DH

37. * Hodge, Jn

38. * Small, HA

39. * emms, FG

40. * Mack, c

41. * Heath, e A

42. * Gadsdon Kt, Sir LP

43. * costa, SV

44. * Williams, AM

45. * Kennedy MBe , AeR

46. * Winders oBe , JR

47. * White oAM, DG

48. * Jaggard oAM, eFK

49. * Johnson, GH

50. * Moroney, DRB

51. * Woodroffe, nS

52. * Becher oAM, MH

53. * Betts, JJ

54. * Stephens, PR

55. * Donaldson, AR

56. * Daley, WJ

57. * Sloane, AD

58. * Besomo, VA

59. * Foerster, WH

60. * Loton, AR

61. * McDonald oAM, LS

62. * Paterson, A

63. * Denison, AG

64. * Lindsay, GA

65. * McGrath, HF

66. * castleman MBe , AW

67. * Prior BeM, Ae

68. * Haywood MBe , FSt

69. * Frizzell oBe oAM, AB

70. * Mccarthy, JG

71. * Spender oBe , JR

72. * Bullpitt MBe , nF

73. * Brydon, Rc

74. * Shanahan, RP

75. * Williams MBe , VJ

76. * Walker oBe , AW

77. * Meagher oBe , t W

78. * Wilson oAM, nB

79. * olson, Ao

80. * Lucas oBe , Dc

81. * Avery, ec

82. * ovens oAM, e J

83. * Payne, F t

84. * Wilson, GJ

85. * Stewart, JJ

86. * nicklin KcMG, GFR

87. * Johnson MBe , SJc

88. * Richards, cF

89. * Williams, G

90. * Dempster, JW

91. * Saunders, RA

92. * Flanagan BeM, nJ

93. * tier, FB

94. * newman, JP

95. * Dearlove MBe GKn, JB

96. * McMaster AM DFc, JW

97. * Riley MBe , HK

98. * Asmussen MBe , cK

99. * Molyneux, D

100. * crain MBe , WAt

101. * Bennett, Pi

102. * Smith AM, e J

103. * Humphris-clark oAM, H

104. * Grant oAM, GF

105. * Hatchett, JG

106. * Howells oAM, RM

107. * McDonald oAM, Hn

108. * Peacock, RJ

109. * tallon oAM, Rc

110. * o'Reilly BeM, Je

111. * Switzer oAM, JR

112. * Vaughan oAM, JK

113. * claybourn oAM, Mc

114. * Klingner oAM, MJ

116. * Field oAM, Rc

117. * Slaven, P

118. * Rosewell oAM, JWA

119. * Weimer, HJ

120. * Honey, c

121. * Burrell oAM, RA

122. * Wilkes, BF

123. * Rector AM, ce

124. * Sellars, JPW

125. * Fitzgerald MBe , Ae

126. * Singleton oAM, WJ

127. * Brown oAM, GM

128. * Morrison oAM, DP

130. * Moseley oAM, A

131. * Pittard, HA

132. * Parkyn oAM, AB

133. * Brown oAM, HJ

134. * Dann, GL

135. * Bowman, BH

136. * Worrell oAM, JG

137. * Martin, We

139. * Hofmaster, e V

142. * trethowan, J

143. * Windmill, Hc

144. * Webb oAM, MA

145. * Rodgers oAM, DG

146. * critcher, Gt

147. * conlin oAM, DR

150. * Sabien, M

151. * chesher oAM, Rc

152. * Morrison, KA

153. * Paton oAM, LS

155. * Gear AM, RJ

156. * Buist, RV

157. * Marsh oAM, c W

158. * Johnson, DL

160. * Wilson BeM, HB

163. * McKenzie oAM, GD

164. * Mcneilly MBe , MD

166 * Reeves oAM, JA

167. * Marshall oAM, WG

169. * Byrnes oAM, MJ

170. * Dixon, nA

171. * Mcnaughton oAM, G

172. * Donnell oAM, BF

173. * trigg oBe , RJ

174. * Jones oAM, JM

175. * Dewey, Jc

176. * King oAM, Bc

177. * Henshaw oAM, nJ

179. * Brown oAM, RM

180. * Burchill oAM, DS

183. * McGrory oAM, FH

184. * Hoskins oAM, KF

185. * taylor oAM, cJ

186. * Millett MBe , Rc

187. * Mackie AM FRAcP GKn, iJ

188. * Davidson oAM, RJ

189. * cramond Ao oBe Prof, tRo

190. * Smith oAM GKn, PW

191. * taylor oAM, PF

195. * Murray, K

199. * Waters oAM, M

200. * Bermingham oAM, PJ

201. * Fielder oAM, cD

202. * Halliday oAM, We

203. * Harding oAM, RJ

204. * Menico oAM, JA

205. * Somers, JF

206. * Wilcox oAM, St

209. * conrick, c

210. * Jackson oAM, RA

212. * Purcell oAM, nR

213. * Worth oAM, WJ

214. * collins, KJ

219. * clark eSM, De

220. * Griffiths, JA

223. * Bond, KJH

225. * Finch AM, the Hon FA

229. * Lyne AM, cR

236. * Weldon AM GKn, Ke

240. * Goetz, AW

242. * o'Rorke oAM, PJ

244. * Stanford oAM, KH

245. * Barlow, J

246. * Green BeM, DA

248. * Godbee oAM, nM

254. * Singleton , Mc

255. * Sargeant, RJ

256. * Howard oAM eSM , RJ

258. * Roberts oAM, RG

261. * Lytham oAM, RJ

263. * Brennan oAM, R

270. * Doig oAM, VA

297. * White, PJ

299. * caldwell, K

308. * Mills oAM, nJP

SLSA NEW LIFE MEMBERS

TROY EADY

BYRON BAY SLSC – SLSA LIFE MEMBER #313

SLSA is proud to bestow its highest honour on deserving member Troy Eady.

Troy’s contribution is unique in the fields of medical, health, and wellbeing support for individual members, the broader movement, and the Australian Lifesaving Team (ALT). Troy has been involved with the ALT since 1992, particularly during the World Lifesaving Championships, where his innovative risk assessment documents and meticulous medical preparation for travelling teams set new benchmarks for athlete care. Troy’s expertise further shines through his contributions to the Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue Training Manual (PSAR). His input into this document underscores his deep knowledge and commitment to lifesaving education, impacting every active lifesaver. Troy’s role in coordinating services at major events like the Australian Championships and Coolangatta Gold and his 20-year tenure with the Iron Series, evolving from Physiotherapist to Emergency Services Coordinator, highlights his unwavering focus on athlete health and safety.

Troy has contributed to research and written papers on various aspects of lifesaving that have been received world-wide. As the first medical person to support a Surf Sport team at any International World Lifesaving event, Troy was a ground breaker, setting the scene for countries across the world to give greater consideration to the health and wellbeing needs of athletes where it has now become the norm.

He has given distinguished service at Club level since 1973 in a range of roles and responsibilities from patrolling member (Troy remains an active patrolling member), training officer, committee member, club captain, age group manager, and President of Junior Activities.

At Branch level he served as a committee member becoming involved in the governance and decision-making processes of his Branch, contributing to its strategic direction and policies.

At State level he was selected as a Surf Sport Representative for NSW Country as well as serving as a team physiotherapist for the NSW Representative Team. SLSA would like to formally recognise Troy Eady for his incredible period of sustained service, which includes many other contributions not mentioned above. We are proud to make Troy our 313th Life Member.

KIRRA SLSC – SLSA LIFE MEMBER #314

SLSA is proud to bestow its highest honour on deserving member Scott Byrnes OAM.

Scott has been involved in, and excelled, across all areas of lifesaving including administration, competition, officiating, education, patrolling, and international training.

Scott, after completing nippers at Kirra, joined the Kirra SLSC senior club in 1974 and gained his Bronze Medallion.

Scott has been a member of Point Danger Branch since 1980 when he joined as a member of the Board of Life Saving and Board of Surf Sports 44 years ago. He has held many committee positions during this sustained period which have included Deputy Superintendent, Director of Lifesaving, District Supervisor for 20 years, and Education Officer for 22 years.

Scott has been an invaluable member of the Queensland State Board of Lifesaving since 1986. He has made significant and sustained contributions to SLSQ’s mission and goals. Scott has also sat on several State committees and panels.

Within the competition arena at National level, Scott is an Australian R&R Champion, both as a team member and as a coach. He has performed as an official at the National Championship in the R&R arena since 1990 and has held many positions including Surf Rescue Referee.

At the national level Scott has been the recipient of the following honours, Australian Lifesaver of the Year, SLSA President’s Medal, Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for services to surf lifesaving, 40 Years Aussies Official Service, National Medal, and 40 Years Training and Assessor.

What distinguishes Scott’s service is 34 years as an Australian Championship official specialising in R&R competition, where he has been the Deputy Referee for the past 10 years. He has also been the referee for the Surf Rescue events and has officiated at several Lifesaving World Championships. For over 30 years, Scott has nurtured the relationship of Kirra SLSC with the National Water Lifesaving Association of Taiwan where he trains the Taiwanese lifeguards.

SLSA would like to formally recognise Scott Byrnes OAM for his incredible period of sustained service, which includes many other contributions not mentioned above. We are proud to make Scott our 314th Life Member.

SCOTT BYRNES OAM

CRAIG WILLIAMS

TUGUN SLSC – SLSA LIFE MEMBER #315

Craig Williams’ work as a referee in Surf Boats and Pool Rescue competition stands out where he has refereed both events at Branch, State, National, and World Championships. He has refereed boat events for 25 years and was the inaugural Ocean Thunder boat referee. He was also the inaugural Queensland Pool Rescue referee, a position he maintained for 10 years, ultimately becoming the Australian Pool Rescue referee. Most recently Craig was appointed to oversee the Pool Rescue component of the Lifesaving World Championships 2024 held on the Gold Coast.

In addition to his long service as a referee across various disciplines, what distinguishes Craig’s contribution is the emphasis he brought on safety at SLSA events including the introduction of many safety measures.

VALE - SLSA LIFE MEMBER

COOKS HILL SLSC / HUNTER BRANCH – SLSA LIFE MEMBER #166

SLSA joins the lifesaving community in mourning the loss of John Reeves OAM, a stalwart of the movement and a Life Member of SLSA, Surf Life Saving NSW, the Hunter Branch, and Cooks Hill Surf Life Saving Club. His remarkable journey, which began in 1948, stands as a testament to his enduring commitment to the ideals of surf lifesaving.

John joined Merewether SLSC as a 14-year-old and gained his Bronze Medallion two years later. He quickly made his mark as a competitive lifesaver, winning gold at Branch and silver at both State and National in the Junior Surf Teams Championship. In the mid-1950s, John transferred to Cooks Hill SLSC, where he continued to excel, particularly in the iconic Belt race, where he was the Branch champion at both Junior and Senior levels.

John’s achievements extended well beyond competition. He was a Patrol Captain, Club and State Team Coach, Branch Superintendent, and a selector at multiple levels. His expertise and leadership were well recognised, and he is credited with the development of countless lifesavers. His dedication and influence were nationally recognised when he was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in 1998 as part of the Queen’s Birthday Honours, a proud moment for both John and the Cooks Hill community.

On behalf of SLSA, we extend our deepest condolences to John’s family, friends, and the members of Cooks Hill SLSC. His unwavering commitment to surf lifesaving, his advocacy for youth development, and his invaluable contributions to the movement will forever be remembered.

John Reeves OAM leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, and inspiration, embodying the very best of what surf lifesaving represents.

JOHN REEVES OAM

STATISTICAL SUMMARIES

MEMBERSHIP

207,962 MEMBERS

4.43% INCREASE IN PROFICIENT SURF LIFE SAVERS

2023/24 SEASON

PROFICIENT SURF LIFE SAVERS

2024/25 SEASON

Cadet Member (13-15 years)

MEMBERSHIP

CLUBS & SUPPORT OPS

5,371 RESCUES PERFORMED BY SURF LIFESAVERS

508,079 PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS PERFORMED BY SURF LIFESAVERS

34,394 FIRST AID TREATMENTS ADMINISTERED BY SURF LIFESAVERS

1,469,465 TOTAL VOLUNTEER HOURS

CLUBS, SUPPORT OPS AND LIFEGUARDS

8,207 RESCUES

2,194,704 PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS PERFORMED

65,942 FIRST AID TREATMENTS

GEAR & EQUIPMENT

(CLUBS)

SURF LIFE SAVING EQUIPMENT (LIFEGUARDS)

ACCREDITATION

SERVICE AWARDS

AWARDS & QUALIFICATION

SLS LEADERSHIP

2023/24

2023/24

LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS (NATIONAL)

SPORTING POSITIONS - COACHES & OFFICIALS

SURF LIFE SAVING ENTITIES

SURF LIFE SAVING ENTITIES

NATIONAL

11 NATIONAL, STATE AND TERRITORY CENTRE, SLSA SUBSIDIARIES

316 Clubs

17 Branches

79 Support Operations Groups & 3 VMR'S

74 Australian Lifeguard Service Operations

500 Surf Life Saving Entities/Groups

NEW SOUTH WALES

129 CLUBS, 11 BRANCHES, 27 SUPPORT OPERATIONS GROUPS, 18 AUSTRALIAN LIFEGUARD SERVICES

129 Clubs

Austinmer SLSC

Avalon Beach SLSC

Avoca Beach SLSC

Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore SLSC

Batemans Bay SLSC

Bellambi SLSC

Bellinger Valley-North Beach SLSC

Bermagui SLSC

Bilgola Beach SLSC

Birubi Point SLSC

Black Head SLSC

Bondi SBLSC

Bronte SLSC

Broulee Surfers SLSC

Brunswick SLSC

Bulli SLSC

Bungan Beach SLSC

Burning Palms SLSC

Byron Bay SLSC

Cabarita Beach SLSC

Camden Haven SLSC

Cape Hawke SLSC

Catherine Hill Bay SLSC

Caves Beach SLSC

Clovelly SLSC

Coalcliff SLSC

Coffs Harbour SLSC

Coledale SLSC

Collaroy SLSC

Coogee (NSW) SLSC

Cooks Hill SLSC

Copacabana SLSC

Corrimal SLSC

Cronulla SLSC

Crowdy Head SLSC

Cudgen Headland SLSC

Dee Why SLSC

Dixon Park SLSC

Elouera SLSC

Era SLSC

Evans Head/Casino SLSC

Fairy Meadow SLSC

Fingal Beach SLSC

Fingal Rovers SLSC

Forster SLSC

Freshwater SLSC

Garie SLSC

Gerringong SLSC

Hat Head SLSC

Helensburgh Stanwell Park SLSC

Kempsey Crescent Head SLSC

Kiama Downs SLSC

Kiama SLSC

Killcare SLSC

Lennox Head Alstonville SLSC

Long Reef SLSC

Macksville-Scotts Head SLSC

Manly LSC

Maroubra SLSC

Merewether SLSC

Minnie Water Wooli SLSC

Mollymook SLSC

Mona Vale SLSC

Moruya SLSC

Nambucca Heads SLSC

Narooma SLSC

Narrabeen SLSC

Newcastle SLSC

Newport SLSC

Nobbys (NSW) SLSC

North Avoca SLSC

North Bondi SLSC

North Cronulla SLSC

North Curl Curl SLSC

North Entrance SLSC

North Narrabeen SLSC

North Palm Beach SLSC

North Steyne SLSC

North Wollongong SLSC

Nowra Culburra SLSC

Ocean Beach SLSC

Pacific Palms SLSC

Palm Beach (NSW) SLSC

Pambula SLSC

Port Kembla (NSW) SLSC

Port Macquarie SLSC

Queenscliff SLSC

Red Rock Corindi SLSC

Redhead SLSC

Salt SLSC

Sandon Point SLSC

Sawtell SLSC

Scarborough Wombarra SLSC

Shellharbour SLSC

Shelly Beach SLSC

Shoalhaven Heads SLSC

Soldiers Beach SLSC

South Curl Curl SLSC

South Maroubra SLSC

South Narrabeen SLSC

South West Rocks SLSC

Stockton SLSC

Sussex Inlet SLSC

Swansea Belmont SLSC

Tacking Point SLSC

Tamarama SLSC

Taree Old Bar SLSC

Tathra SLSC

Tea Gardens Hawks Nest SLSC

Terrigal SLSC

The Entrance SLSC

The Lakes SLSC

Thirroul SLSC

Toowoon Bay SLSC

MacMasters SLSC

Towradgi SLSC

Umina SLSC

Urunga SLSC

Wamberal SLSC

Wanda SLSC

Warilla Barrack Point SLSC

Warriewood SLSC

Wauchope Bonny Hills SLSC

Whale Beach SLSC

Windang SLSC

Wollongong City SLSC

Woolgoolga SLSC

Woonona SLSC

Yamba SLSC

11 Branches

Central Coast Branch

Far North Coast Branch

Far South Coast Branch

Hunter Branch

QUEENSLAND

Illawarra Branch

Lower North Coast Branch

Mid North Coast Branch

North Coast Branch

South Coast Branch

Sydney Branch

Sydney Northern Beaches Branch

27 Support Operations Groups

Central Coast Branch Duty Officers

Central Coast Branch RWC Group

Far North Coast Branch Duty Officers

Far North Coast Branch RWC

Far South Coast Branch Duty Officers

Far South Coast Branch RWC

Hunter Branch RWC

Hunter Branch Duty Officers

Illawarra Branch Duty Officers

Illawarra Branch RWC Team

Lower North Coast Branch Duty Officers

Lower North Coast RWC

Mid North Coast Branch Duty Officers

Mid North Coast Branch RWC

North Coast Branch Duty Officers

North Coast Branch RWC

South Coast Branch Duty Officers

South Coast Branch RWC

Surf Life Saving NSW State Duty Officers

Surf Life Saving NSW SurfCom Team

Surf Rescue 30

Sydney Branch - Duty Officers

Sydney Branch - RWC service

Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Duty Officers

Sydney Northern Beaches Branch RWC Service

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service (Lifesaver 21)

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service (Lifesaver 23)

58 CLUBS, 6 BRANCHES, 13 SUPPORT OPERATIONS GROUPS, 18 AUSTRALIAN LIFEGUARD SERVICES

58 Clubs

Agnes Water SLSC

Alexandra Headland SLSC

Arcadian SLSC

Ayr SLSC

Bribie Island SLSC

Broadbeach SLSC

Bundaberg SLSC

Bilinga SLSC

Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park SLSC

Cairns SLSC

Forrest Beach SLSC

Coochiemudlo Island SLSC

Coolangatta SLSC

Coolum Beach SLSC

Currumbin SLSC

Dicky Beach SLSC

Emu Park SLSC

Etty Bay SLSC

Eimeo SLSC

Elliott Heads SLSC

Ellis Beach SLSC

Hervey Bay SLSC

Kawana Waters SLSC

Kirra SLSC

Kurrawa SLSC

Mackay SLSC

Marcoola SLSC

Maroochydore SLSC

Mermaid Beach SLSC

Metropolitan Caloundra SLSC

Miami Beach SLSC

Mission Beach SLSC

Mooloolaba SLSC

Moore Park SLSC

Mudjimba SLSC

Nobbys Beach SLSC

Noosa Heads SLSC

North Burleigh SLSC

North Kirra SLSC

Northcliffe SLSC

Pacific SLSC

Palm Beach QLD SLSC

Peregian SLSC

Point Lookout SLSC

Port Douglas SLSC

Rainbow Bay SLSC

Rainbow Beach SLSC

Redcliffe Peninsula SLSC

Sarina SLSC

Southport (Qld) SLSC

Sunshine Beach SLSC

Surfers Paradise SLSC

Tallebudgera SLSC

Tannum Sands SLSC

Townsville Picnic Bay SLSC

Tugun SLSC

Tweed Heads Coolangatta SLSC

Yeppoon SLSC

6 Branches

North Barrier Branch

North Queensland Branch

Point Danger Branch

South Coast Branch

Wide Bay Capricorn Branch

Sunshine Coast Branch

13 Support Operations

Brisbane Lifesaving ServiceOperational

Dawn and Dusk Patrols - Gold Coast

Emergency Response GroupsStatewide

Gold Coast Duty Officers

SLSQ RWC - Gold Coast

SLSQ RWC - North Barrier

SLSQ RWC - Sunshine Coast

SLSQ RWC - Wide Bay Capricorn

State Operations Centre Gold Coast

Sunshine Coast Duty Officers

Sunshine Coast Surfcom

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter

Service - Gold Coast

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter

Service - Sunshine Coast

18 Australian Lifeguard Services

Bundaberg Regional Council

18 Australian Lifeguard Services

Ballina Shire Council

Bega Valley Shire Council

Bellingen Shire Council

Byron Shire Council

Clarence Valley Council

Kempsey Shire Council

Mid Coast Council

Munmorah Conservation Area

Nambucca Shire Council

Northern Beaches Council

Port Macquarie - Hastings Council

Port Stephens Council

Richmond Valley Council

Royal National Park

Shoalhaven City Council

Tweed Coast Holiday Parks

Tweed Shire Council

Eurobodalla

Cairns Regional Council

Cassowary Coast Regional Council

Douglas Shire Council

Fraser Coast Regional Council

Gladstone Regional Council

Gold Coast City Council

Gympie Regional Council

Livingstone Shire Council

Mackay Regional Council

Moreton Bay Regional Council

Noosa Council

Redland City Council

Southbank Corporation

Sunshine Coast Council

Townsville City Council

Whitsunday Regional Council

Non-Local Government Areas

VICTORIA

57 Clubs

Altona LSC

Anglesea SLSC

Apollo Bay SLSC

Aspendale LSC

Bancoora SLSC

Barwon Heads Thirteenth Beach SLSC

Beaumaris LSC

Black Rock LSC

Bonbeach LSC

Brighton LSC

Cape Paterson SLSC

Carrum SLSC

Chelsea Longbeach SLSC

Dromana Bay LSC

Edithvale LSC

Elwood LSC

Fairhaven SLSC

Frankston LSC

Gunnamatta SLSC

Half Moon Bay SLSC

Hampton LSC

Inverloch SLSC

Jan Juc SLSC

Kennett River SLSC

Lorne SLSC

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

31 Clubs

Albany SLSC

Alkimos SLSC

Binningup SLSC

Broome SLSC

Busselton SLSC

Champion Bay SLSC

City of Bunbury SLSC

City of Perth SLSC

Coogee Beach (WA) SLSC

Cottesloe SLSC

Dalyellup Beach SLSC

Dampier SLSC

Denmark SLSC

Dongara-Denison SLSC

Mallacoota SLSC

Mentone LSC

Mildura LSC

Mordialloc LSC

MorningtonLSC

Mount Martha LSC

Ocean Grove SLSC

Point Leo SLSC

Point Lonsdale SLSC

Port Campbell SLSC

Port Fairy LSC

Port Melbourne LSC

Portland SLSC

Portsea SLSC

Rosebud & McCrae LSC

Sandridge LSC

Sandringham LSC

Seaford LSC

Seaspray SLSC

SLS Lakes Entrance

Sorrento LSC

South Melbourne LSC

St Kilda LSC

Torquay SLSC

Venus Bay SLSC

Waratah Beach SLSC

Esperance-Goldfields SLSC

Floreat SLSC

Fremantle SLSC

Geraldton SLSC

Mandurah SLSC

Margaret River SLSC

Mullaloo SLSC

North Cottesloe SLSC

Port Bouvard SLSC

Quinns Mindarie SLSC

Scarboro SLSC

Secret Harbour SLSC

Smiths Beach (WA) SLSC

Sorrento (WA) SLSC

Swanbourne Nedlands SLSC

Warrnambool SLSC

Williamstown Swimming and LSC

Wonthaggi LSC

Woodside Beach SLSC

Woolamai Beach SLSC

Wye River SLSC

13 Support Operations

Bass RWC Service

Geelong West RWC Service

Kingston RWC Service

LSV Comms

Marine Search & Rescue - Waratah Beach

Peninsula RWC Service

Geelong East RWC Service

Port Phillip RWC Service

Gippsland RWC Service

Surf Coast East RWC Service

Surf Coast West RWC Service

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter - LS30

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter - LS31

Sunshine Coast Surfcom

SLSQ RWC - Wide Bay Capricorn

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service - Gold Coast

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service - Sunshine Coast

20 Australian Lifeguard Services

Borough of Queenscliffe (Geelong)

City of Greater Geelong

City of Port Phillip

City of Warrnambool

Colac Otway Shire

Corangamite

East Gippsland Shire

Frankston City Council

Glenelg Shire

Hobsons Bay

Mornington Peninsula Shire

Shire of Bass Coast

Shire of Moyne

South Gippsland Shire

Surf Coast Shire

Wellington Shire

Wyndham City Council

Barwon Coast (Land Manager)

Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks

Authority (Land Manager)

Parks Victoria (Land Manager)

Trigg Island SLSC

Yanchep SLSC

12 Support Operations

Abalone Patrol

Esperance-Goldfields Support Operations

Great Southern Support Operations

Kimberley Support Operations

Mid West Support Operations

North Metropolitan Support Operations

Peer Support Operations

SLSWA Drone Patrol

SLSWA Surfcom

South Metropolitan Support Operations

South West Support Operations

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service

11 Australian Lifeguard Services

City of Albany

City of Busselton

City of Joondalup

City of Rockingham

City of Wanneroo

Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Shire of Denmark

Town of Cambridge

Shire of Augusta Margaret River

Town of Cottesloe

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

23

Aldinga Bay SLSC

Beachport SLSC

Brighton SLSC

Chiton Rocks SLSC

Christies Beach SLSC

Elizabeth LSC

Glenelg SLSC

Goolwa SLSC

Grange SLSC

TASMANIA

Bridport

Burnie

Carlton

Clifton

Devonport

Henley

Moana SLSC

Normanville SLSC

North Haven SLSC

Murray Bridge LSC

Port Elliot SLSC

Port Noarlunga SLSC

Robe SLSC

Seacliff SLSC

Semaphore SLSC Somerton

South

West

Whyalla SLSC

6

SLSSA

SLSSA

SLSSA

SLSSA

SLSSA

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Blackspot An area with a concentration of coastal/ocean incidents and a high probability/ risk of ongoing recurrence.

Coastal Describes the foreshore, seabed, coastal water and air space above a large body of water (harbour/bay/inlet), including areas up to 3nm offshore and of which the landward boundary is the line of mean high water, except where that line crosses a river/inlet, the landward boundary at that point shall be the point upstream that is calculated by multiplying the width of the river/inlet mouth by five (adopted from the Resource Management Amendment Act 1993 New Zealand).

Drowning The process of experiencing respiratory impairment from submersion/ immersion in liquid; outcomes are classified as death, morbidity, and no morbidity.

Drowning death Fatal drowning incident arising from the process of respiratory impairment as a result of submersion/immersion in liquid.

First aid Assessments and interventions that can be performed by a bystander (or by the victim) with minimal to no equipment.

Lifeguard An individual who undertakes patrols at a beach or another aquatic environment. He/ she is typically a salaried member, qualified in public safety and aquatic rescue.

Lifesaving service A coordinated group that exists to provide aquatic safety services to the public. This includes Surf Life Saving Clubs, Lifeguards, SurfCom, RWCs, RIBs, JRBs, ORBs, Rescue Helicopters and 4WD units.

Patrolled location A location supervised by a lifesaving service.

Preventative action Direct action taken to reduce or eliminate the probability of a specific rescue, first aid or other reportable incident from happening in the future.

Rescue The retrieval of a person in distress, delivering them to a place of safety and the application of first aid and basic life support as may be required

Resuscitation Prevention or restoration of life by establishing and maintaining a person’s airway, breathing and circulation.

Rip current A seaward flowing current of water moving through a surf zone.

Surfcom Surf Life Saving radio communications centre that assists in managing the communications of lifesaving operations and data collection.

Total service plan An assessment of current and future lifesaving resources, trends, national blackspots and coastal safety issues combined with evidence-based mitigation strategies to address these issues.

Common acronyms

ACNC Australian Charities and Not-For-Profit Commission

ACPSG SLSA Australian Coastal Public Safety Guidelines

AEMVF Australian Emergency Management Volunteer Forum

ALS Australian Lifeguard Service

ARC Australian Resuscitation Council

ASC Australian Sports Commission

CPR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

EMA Emergency Management Australia

EMG Executive Management Group

FARCC Finance, Audit, Risk & Compliance Committee

HRS Helicopter Rescue Service

ILS International Life Saving Federation

IRB Inflatable Rescue Boat

JRB Jet Rescue Boat

RWC Rescue Water Craft (aka jet ski/Sea Doo)

SAR Search and Rescue operations

SIA Sport Integrity Australia

SLSA Surf Life Saving Australia

SLS Surf Life Saving

SLSC Surf Life Saving Club

SSV Side by Side Vehicle

Surf Life Saving Australia Ltd

Level 1, 1 Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach, NSW 2026 Australia

P.O. Box 7773, Bondi Beach, NSW 2026

Ph: +61 2 9215 8000 | Fax: +61 2 9215 8180 | Web: sls.com.au | Email: info@slsa.asn.au |

Limited additional copies of this annual report are available upon request from SLSA. This report is available online at sls.com.au/publications

HIGHLIGHTS

HIGHEST RESULT SINCE INCEPTION IN 2009